‘This Is Why The People Love Him’

Alex Pereira is stepping up on short notice to defend his UFC light heavyweight title in a rematch against Jiri Prochazka later this evening (Sat., June 29, 2024) at UFC 303 LIVE on ESPN+ PPV from inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, and UFC CEO Dana White couldn’t be happier.

Remember, UFC 303 was supposed to mark the official return of Conor McGregor. “Notorious” was set to headline the International Fight Week card against Michael Chandler and turn in the biggest gate in UFC history. Unfortunately, McGregor suffered a toe injury during training camp and was forced out of the fight just two weeks ago.

Pereira, who is coming off a spectacular knockout finish over Jamahal Hill at UFC 300 this past April (watch HERE), was traveling in Australia when he got the call to step in and defend his title this weekend. “Poatan” has quickly become one of the most popular fighters on the UFC roster today and wasted little time accepting his rematch with Prochazka, who should also be praised for his willingness to fight the champion on 14 days notice.

UFC officials pulled some other strings to help bolster UFC 303’s PPV main card, but the addition of Pereira was key. After all, the former GLORY champion has fought on some of the biggest cards in recent UFC memory. This includes two fights at Madison Square Garden in New York City and the aforementioned UFC 300 mega-card earlier this year. Pereira is a bona fide star and UFC needed him to step up to fill in for McGregor.

White, who was involved every step of the way when it came to reshuffling UFC 303’s broken lineup, has praised Pereira for his willingness to say yes. Earlier this week, White caught up with the UFC light heavyweight champion backstage and thanked him in person.

“This is why the people love him so much,” said White (shown below). “This is why the people react the way they do.

“On Vacation, in Australia, to come save this fight. Thank you.”

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For complete UFC 303 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.