MMA fans love a good rivalry, and UFC 312 is about to deliver one of the most intense and personal showdowns in recent history. The highly anticipated clash between Alex Pereira and Dricus Du Plessis is not just about championship gold—it’s about bad blood, personal pride, and an undeniable grudge.
But what is the real reason behind Pereira’s “hatred” for Du Plessis? Is it just pre-fight mind games, or is there a deeper animosity brewing between these two elite warriors?
Let’s break down the hidden tensions, psychological warfare, and explosive history leading into one of the most heated matchups of the year.
The Origins of the Feud: Where Did It All Begin?
At first glance, there’s no obvious reason for Alex Pereira to have any personal issues with Dricus Du Plessis. The Brazilian knockout artist and the South African powerhouse have never shared the octagon before, nor have they had any direct conflict in past fights.
But beneath the surface, there are several key reasons why this fight has turned personal for Pereira:
1. The Africa Controversy: Pereira’s Close Ties to Adesanya
It’s no secret that Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya have one of the most storied rivalries in combat sports. But what many people forget is that Pereira still harbors a deep level of respect for Adesanya—despite their wars inside the cage.
When Dricus Du Plessis sparked controversy by claiming he would be the “first real African UFC champion”, it ignited a wave of backlash. Many saw his comments as a disrespectful shot at Adesanya, Francis Ngannou, and Kamaru Usman, three African-born fighters who have all held UFC gold.
While Pereira never publicly addressed the controversy at the time, insiders suggest that he was quietly irritated by Du Plessis’ words. As someone who has faced Adesanya multiple times, Pereira understands how much the former middleweight champion represents Nigeria and Africa.
Could it be that Pereira is now stepping up to defend his old rival in an ironic twist of fate?
2. The “Disrespect” Factor: Du Plessis’ Comments on Pereira
If there’s one thing Alex Pereira despises, it’s disrespect. And Dricus Du Plessis has never been shy about sharing his opinions.
In multiple interviews, Du Plessis has taken subtle shots at Pereira’s skillset, questioning:
Whether Pereira is truly as dangerous as people think
If his striking is overrated
How he would “expose” Pereira’s weaknesses in a potential fight
For a calculated killer like Pereira, these words are fuel to the fire. He has built his career on proving people wrong, and anyone who questions his abilities is bound to get a brutal wake-up call inside the octagon.
Du Plessis may have unknowingly made things personal by challenging Pereira’s legitimacy as a dominant force in the UFC.
Alex Pereira: A Man Who Holds Grudges
If history has taught us anything about Alex Pereira, it’s that he is not the type to forget an insult.
When Israel Adesanya mocked him early in their careers, Pereira waited years before humiliating him in their first MMA clash.
When Sean Strickland dismissed his striking, Pereira made sure to knock him out cold in the first round.
Pereira is a fighter who remembers every slight, and when the time comes, he delivers revenge in the most violent way possible.
Dricus Du Plessis may have just placed himself on Pereira’s personal hit list—and that’s a terrifying place to be.
How Styles Make Fights: Can Du Plessis Survive Pereira’s Power?
With all the bad blood leading up to UFC 312, the fight itself is set to be an all-out war. But how does Du Plessis’ style match up against Pereira’s elite striking?
1. The Power Factor: Can Du Plessis Handle Pereira’s KO Ability?
Pereira has some of the most devastating knockout power in MMA history
He has dropped elite fighters with a single shot
Du Plessis has never faced anyone with Pereira’s level of technical striking
If Du Plessis makes one mistake, it could be lights out in an instant.
2. The Wrestling Question: Can Du Plessis Take Pereira Down?
Du Plessis has a strong grappling background and could look to exploit Pereira’s ground game
Pereira has improved his takedown defense, but is still relatively inexperienced in high-level MMA wrestling
If Du Plessis can force a ground battle, things could get interesting
This could be the only real path to victory for Du Plessis. But can he avoid Pereira’s striking long enough to implement his wrestling game plan?
3. The Cardio Battle: Can Pereira Keep Up with Du Plessis’ Relentless Pace?
Du Plessis is known for his chaotic, high-pressure style
Pereira prefers a slower, calculated striking approach
If Du Plessis can drag Pereira into deep waters, will the Brazilian slow down?
There’s no question that Du Plessis has the ability to push the pace. But will it be enough to overcome Pereira’s lethal precision?
Prediction: How Will This Fight End?
This fight is guaranteed to be violent, but the outcome depends on who imposes their game plan first.
Scenario 1: Pereira by Devastating Knockout
Pereira times Du Plessis’ aggressive entries and lands a massive counter shot
The fight ends in the first or second round with Du Plessis unconscious on the mat
Pereira silences any doubts and sends a message to the division
Prediction: Alex Pereira wins via KO in Round 2
Scenario 2: Du Plessis Survives and Wins a Gritty Fight
Du Plessis weathers the early storm and forces Pereira into a grueling war
He utilizes his wrestling to grind down Pereira over multiple rounds
By the fourth or fifth round, Pereira slows down, and Du Plessis secures a late TKO or decision
Prediction: Dricus Du Plessis wins via TKO in Round 4
Final Thoughts: A War for the Ages
No matter how this fight plays out, UFC 312 will be a turning point for both fighters.
If Pereira wins? He adds another elite name to his resume and solidifies himself as one of the most dangerous champions in history.
If Du Plessis wins? He proves that he belongs at the top and silences all doubters.
But one thing is certain: Alex Pereira is entering this fight with bad intentions—and for Du Plessis, that could mean a very painful night inside the octagon.
Who do YOU think wins? Drop your predictions below!
