Alex Pereira Eyes Training with Jon Jones, Downplays Super Fight Hype

Alex Pereira

UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has his sights set on defending his title against Khalil Rountree at UFC 307. But beyond his own fight preparations, Pereira is open to teaming up with heavyweight champ Jon Jones ahead of UFC 309, where "Bones" will defend his belt against Stipe Miocic.

In a recent interview with Full Send, Pereira shared that he’s been in contact with Jones, discussing the possibility of training together. The Brazilian star is keen on joining forces before Jones’ November title defense.

"I think there’s some good time [between our fights]," Pereira explained. "His fight is only in November, so we can get some rest and then train together."

The two champions crossed paths at UFC 306 in Las Vegas, where they took pictures together, sparking further interest in a potential collaboration. Pereira noted that Jones looked more athletic and lean compared to his last outing at UFC 285, where he swiftly submitted Ciryl Gane to claim the heavyweight title. While fans may be buzzing about a super fight between the two, Pereira isn’t rushing toward that idea just yet.

"A lot of people talk about this super fight, but I think I have to make the most of this guy’s experience," Pereira emphasized. "He has a ton of experience... I’m not even at heavyweight yet. I don’t know if that’s possible, but I want to at least be training with him."

When asked about a potential champion vs. champion showdown, Pereira shifted the focus back to middleweight. He’s determined to reclaim his 185-pound title and sees Dricus du Plessis as a likely target.

"Dricus du Plessis is the easier fight," Pereira remarked, hinting at du Plessis' reluctance to face him. "Everybody knows he’s scared. We can see from his answer that he doesn’t want this."

Though Pereira’s next move is a title defense, the prospect of training with Jones adds an exciting wrinkle to the lead-up to UFC 309. For now, it seems Pereira is more focused on gaining experience from the heavyweight champ than trading punches with him in the Octagon.