UFC light heavyweight champion Pereira is set to defend his title against Khalil Rountree in the upcoming UFC 307 main event. However, former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping has expressed his doubts about Pereira’s readiness to drop down to the middleweight division to take on Dricus Du Plessis.
According to Bisping, Pereira still has more to prove at light heavyweight before considering a change in weight classes. He believes that being the champion in a specific weight class comes with responsibilities, such as facing different types of opponents to truly showcase one’s greatness.
Bisping points out that Pereira has predominantly faced strikers in his UFC career and needs to overcome a grappler to solidify his status as a well-rounded fighter. He mentions the potential matchup with Magomed Ankalaev as a significant test for Pereira, given Ankalaev’s wrestling background.
Facing Different Styles
In Bisping’s view, Pereira must demonstrate his ability to adapt to and defeat various styles in the light heavyweight division before considering a move to middleweight. He emphasizes the importance of taking on all challengers and proving one’s skills against different types of opponents to be recognized as a great champion.
While Bisping acknowledges Pereira’s talent and championship status, he believes that there are still challenges for the light heavyweight champion to overcome before transitioning to a new weight class. Pereira’s upcoming fight against Rountree and the potential matchup with Ankalaev will play a crucial role in shaping his future in the UFC.