Stipe Miocic advises Alex Pereira to stay confident as the former two-division UFC champion prepares for another heavyweight test at UFC 335 in December.
Pereira will face former interim title challenger Sergei Pavlovich in the co-main event as he looks to secure his first win in the heavyweight division.
The Brazilian suffered a TKO loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 in June, ending his hopes of becoming the first fighter to win UFC titles in three weight classes. Following that defeat, many expected Pereira to return to light heavyweight, where he enjoyed greater success.
However, Miocic believes Pereira has what it takes to bounce back and eventually claim the heavyweight championship. The former UFC heavyweight champion also backed Pereira to make history despite his difficult debut in the division.
Speaking in a recent interview with Athlon Sports via Casino.org, Miocic explained why he believes Pereira can win a third UFC title.
“I think he can win a third belt,” Miocic predicted of Pereira’s heavyweight future.“I won a belt at 38. I think he’ll be fine. He’s tough. That (UFC Freedom 250) was his first time fighting in the big boy class, and I think he’s shown he’s ready to do it. He knows what to expect. It’s tough, but he comes ready every time.
“I think he’s already at that level,” Miocic continued. “He’s already won two belts in two weight classes, so I mean, he’s done more than I have. I’ve only won one weight class.”
Miocic retired in November 2024 after losing to then-heavyweight champion Jon Jones at UFC 309. Despite stepping away from competition, the former champion continues to follow the heavyweight division, particularly Pereira’s attempt to reach another milestone.
Pereira will now turn his attention to Pavlovich, one of the division’s most dangerous knockout artists. The Brazilian enters the matchup after recent light heavyweight victories over Magomed Ankalaev and Khalil Rountree Jr., but he faces a different challenge against the heavyweight contender.
A victory at UFC 335 would give Pereira momentum as he continues his pursuit of a third UFC title. While his loss to Gane exposed the challenges of competing against bigger opponents, Miocic believes Pereira has the experience and toughness to adjust.
Pereira must first get past Pavlovich before he can seriously pursue the heavyweight championship. However, Miocic’s prediction suggests the former champion is not ready to count him out.
