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Chael Sonnen Claims Alex Pereira is the Only Fighter Who Can Become a Three-Weight UFC Champion
Chael Sonnen, the outspoken former UFC middleweight contender, has made a bold claim about one fighter's potential to make history in the UFC. While numerous mixed martial artists have achieved the coveted "champ champ" status by holding titles in two different weight classes, Sonnen believes there's only one fighter on the planet who can break the ultimate barrier and capture three UFC belts—Alex Pereira.
Sonnen's confidence in Pereira is rooted in his belief that the Brazilian's unique combination of skills and mental fortitude make him a rare breed in the sport. "Pereira is the only guy of my lifetime that I reasonably believe could pull off champ, champ, champ," Sonnen declared in a video posted to his YouTube channel. "There’s not enough of a story; there still has to be a why. Moving him up just for the sake of moving him up—I don’t get the point."
This statement may raise eyebrows, especially considering the UFC's history of multi-weight champions. Fighters like Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, and Amanda Nunes have all proven that it’s possible to conquer two divisions, but no fighter has yet captured a third belt. Sonnen believes that while Pereira’s skills could propel him to three-weight glory, there needs to be more than just a move up the ranks for the sake of it. He adds, "It sounds like he’s going to be offered a title fight at 205 pounds. So, the best-case scenario if he goes to heavyweight, he’s offered a title fight there."
However, Sonnen suggests there’s a better path for Pereira—one that stays true to the spirit of competition. He emphasizes that before Pereira moves up, he should focus on resolving his past defeat at 205 pounds. “Keep a guy at his weight and have him take on a guy he’s already failed against—that’s what true competitors do. Scratch and claw and fight your way back," Sonnen explained. This point reflects Sonnen’s view on the value of a fighter’s resilience and the journey required to earn a title shot, rather than simply being granted an opportunity due to circumstances.
The Question of the Heavyweight Division
Sonnen’s comments also touch on the potential for Pereira to rise to heavyweight, especially given the recent challenges in that division. "My belief of Pereira going up to heavyweight is superseded by what Pereira as a piece on the chessboard would provide," Sonnen said. He believes Pereira’s presence in the division could become a strategic move, especially if the UFC struggles to make other major matchups like Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall. However, Sonnen isn't fully sold on the idea of moving Pereira up purely for competitive reasons.
"If we couldn’t get Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall done, what are you going to do? Do you call Ciryl Gane and put him in with Aspinall?" Sonnen questioned, pointing out the difficulties in finding the right opponents for top contenders. This line of thinking leads him to suggest that Pereira’s move to heavyweight might serve more as a tactical decision rather than a direct challenge to the division's champions.
A History of Success, But Still Room for Improvement
While Sonnen holds Pereira in high regard for his striking and his ability to excel in both the UFC and Glory Kickboxing, he does have his critiques. He has expressed concern about certain aspects of Pereira’s training and approach. Nevertheless, there’s no denying that Pereira is a talented and adaptable fighter, having conquered multiple disciplines at the highest level.
Pereira’s story is one of exceptional talent and persistence. From his Glory Kickboxing championships to his dominance in the UFC, the Brazilian has proven that he’s more than capable of overcoming challenges. The question now is whether he can navigate the hurdles in his path—whether it be a rematch with an old foe or the transition to a new weight class—and prove that he truly has the potential to become the first-ever three-weight champion in UFC history.
Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Chael Sonnen believes Pereira has what it takes to make that leap, and the MMA world will be watching closely to see if the Brazilian can fulfill his potential.