Alex Pereira, known as “Poatan,” is one of the most impactful figures in mixed martial arts (MMA) and kickboxing. Born in Brazil, he embodies the strength and resilience of an athlete who overcame adversity to become a world champion. His journey is defined by devastating strikes, titles across multiple disciplines, and an unwavering dedication to the sport. This article explores his life, career, and the latest updates as of October 2025.
Early Life and Youth
Alexsandro Pereira was born on July 7, 1987, in São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Brazil. Raised in a favela, he grew up in an environment marked by poverty and limited opportunities. His childhood was challenging; he dropped out of high school to work and support his family. Like many youths in similar circumstances, Pereira struggled with alcoholism, which nearly derailed his early life. Working at a tire shop, he got involved in street fights and grappled to find a positive path.
Of indigenous descent, Pereira comes from native Brazilian tribes with no immediate European or African ancestry. His parents belong to indigenous communities, deeply connecting him to Brazil’s ancestral culture. He describes himself as “100% native Brazilian.” Initially drawn to soccer, a common passion in Brazil, he soon transitioned to boxing and, later, kickboxing. This shift became a way to channel his energy and escape a destructive cycle of addiction and urban violence.
Pereira faced racism and prejudice due to his indigenous roots, which fueled his drive to prove himself in the ring. His first mentor helped him overcome these obstacles, introducing rituals and discipline that shaped his character. Kickboxing became his salvation, transforming a troubled youth into a fierce competitor. This early phase of his life is a testament to resilience, showing how sports can change destinies.
Early Kickboxing Career
Kickboxing entered Alex Pereira’s life as a passion that pulled him off the streets. He began training as an amateur, competing in 28 amateur boxing matches, securing 25 victories—all by knockout—and only three losses. This boxing foundation strengthened his striking, particularly his powerful punches that would later make him famous.
Professionally, Pereira joined Glory Kickboxing, one of the premier organizations in the sport. His nickname “Poatan,” meaning “Stone Hand” in his native language, reflects the power of his strikes. He competed in the middleweight and cruiserweight divisions, amassing an impressive record of 33 wins and 7 losses, with 21 knockouts. His Glory debut was promising, and he quickly stood out for his precision and brute force.
Kickboxing Achievements
In 2017, Pereira won the Glory middleweight world title, beginning a dominant reign. He defended the belt multiple times, knocking out opponents with shin kicks and straight punches that reverberated through arenas. Later, he moved up to light heavyweight and became a simultaneous two-division champion, a rare feat in kickboxing. His Glory highlight reel showcases a legendary career with memorable knockouts, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats.
Pereira is considered one of the top 15 kickboxers ever, particularly for being the only fighter to win titles in two Glory divisions. His journey from a working-class background to world champion inspired many, and he credited his success to discipline and the support of coaches who helped him overcome alcoholism. In interviews, he notes that kickboxing not only saved his life but also prepared him for greater challenges.
Transition to MMA
Despite his kickboxing success, Pereira transitioned to MMA around 2017, seeking new horizons. Over 30 years old, he was considered “old” for an MMA newcomer, but his superior striking compensated for his lack of grappling experience. His early MMA record was strong, with quick knockout victories.
He signed with the UFC in 2021 after successes in regional Brazilian promotions. His debut featured tough opponents, where he proved his knockout power translated seamlessly to MMA rules. Pereira focused on improving his jiu-jitsu and wrestling—initial weaknesses—while his kickboxing base made him an immediate threat.
UFC Career
In the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Pereira skyrocketed to fame. He won the middleweight title by knocking out Israel Adesanya in 2022, avenging a prior kickboxing loss. He later moved up to light heavyweight and claimed the belt by defeating Jiri Prochazka. His UFC record stands at 9 wins and 2 losses as of 2024, with standout knockouts against Jamahal Hill and others.
Pereira holds the record for the fastest title defenses in UFC history, with three in 175 days. His stats show a 62% strike accuracy and 53% defense rate, highlighting his efficiency. He faced controversies, such as a debated decision in 2023, but continued to evolve.
Titles and Key Victories
Among his greatest achievements are knockouts against Prochazka (twice), Khalil Rountree in 2024, and a title defense against Hill. At UFC 307, he retained the light heavyweight title with a dominant performance. Pereira is known for his composure in the octagon and strikes that end fights in seconds. His style, blending kickboxing with MMA adaptations, makes him unique.
Losses and Lessons
Pereira suffered losses to Adesanya (twice) and, most recently, to Magomed Ankalaev in March 2025 at UFC 313, where he lost the light heavyweight title by unanimous decision, hampered by injuries. These setbacks humbled him, but he used the time to recover and evolve, promising a stronger version of himself.
Personal Life
Outside the ring, Pereira is a dedicated father and an example of overcoming adversity. He quit alcohol and adopted indigenous rituals to stay focused. His family supports him, and he uses his platform to inspire youth from favelas. Pereira expresses gratitude for every step of his journey, valuing both victories and losses.
He has expressed interest in moving to the heavyweight division and faces comments from rivals like Tom Aspinall about his résumé.
Recent Updates in 2025
In 2025, Pereira is in the spotlight with UFC 320, scheduled for October 4 in Las Vegas. He faces Magomed Ankalaev in a rematch for the light heavyweight title. After losing the belt in March due to injuries, Pereira has fully recovered and promises an evolved performance. Fans in Las Vegas rally behind the Brazilian, who seeks redemption.
He has voiced interest in fighting Carlos Ulberg after the event, should he reclaim the title. There are speculations about him stepping in to save a UFC event if Conor McGregor cancels a White House fight. His current record is 12-3, with a focus on striking (5.00 strikes per minute).
Pereira cherishes every part of his journey and is determined to reclaim the throne.
Conclusion
Alex Pereira is more than a fighter; he is a symbol of perseverance. From the favela to champion, his story inspires millions. With the rematch against Ankalaev approaching, the world awaits more glory from “Poatan.” His continuous evolution ensures he remains a force in MMA.
