MMA news: Alex Pereira reveals two fights at heavyweight he wants in 2026
After reclaiming his light-heavyweight title in the rematch against Magomed Ankalaev back in October, Alex Pereira has his sights set on a historic move to heavyweight in 2026.
Pereira, 38, has already left an unforgettable imprint on the sport of MMA since his UFC debut back in 2021.
The hard-hitting Brazilian has held titles at both middleweight and twice at light-heavyweight despite having just 12 fights in the UFC, with seven of those wins coming against either former champions or fighters who would go on to hold UFC gold.
However, after effectively clearing out the light-heavyweight division, Pereira has his sights on two fights in particular that would tempt him to move up to heavyweight, reports Sports News Blitz’s Niall Togher.
Alex Pereira eyes Jon Jones showdown at the White House or a heavyweight title shot
At this stage in his career, it feels like it is now or never if Pereira wants to capitalise on an opportunity to move to heavyweight, whilst he is still close enough to his prime to compete.
This is something the Brazilian seemingly recognises, as he revealed the fights he wants next in a recent interview with Omelete.
“I mentioned the White House against Jon Jones, and I’ve also even spoken about a fight at heavyweight for a third belt.
“But I don’t know, it’s not in my control. I have my desires, but I’m also just waiting like everyone else,” Pereira said.
Whether it is against Jones or a potential showdown with Tom Aspinall or whoever holds the heavyweight title, MMA fans would be intrigued to see if Pereira could do the unthinkable once again.
🚨 Alex Pereira wants his next fight to be at heavyweight, either against Jon Jones or for the title 👀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) December 7, 2025
"I mentioned the White House against Jon Jones, and I've also even spoke about a fight at heavyweight for a third belt.
But I don't know, it's not in my control. I have my… pic.twitter.com/EgTDzpQiVK
Alex Pereira deserves big fights at heavyweight
In recent years, Pereira has established himself as arguably the biggest name in MMA, whilst also being one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
He has been an active champion over multiple weight classes, frequently fought through injuries and stepped in at short notice to headline UFC cards that were without a main event.
If anyone deserves the opportunity for a mega fight at the White House or the chance to be the first fighter to win a title in three weight classes, it’s him.
Given the fact that Dana White has seemingly shot down the possibility of Jones returning, a fight for the heavyweight title seems more realistic.
With Aspinall not returning to action anytime soon as a result of the injuries he sustained to his eyes, there could be a possibility we see Pereira booked against Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title at the start of 2026, with the winner going on to fight Aspinall when the Englishman has been cleared to compete.
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