Alex Pereira vs. Dricus Du Plessis has been finalized for a potential UFC superfight, now it’s up to Dana White

The MMA world is buzzing with speculation after a tense encounter between Alex Pereira and Dricus Du Plessis following UFC 312. With Du Plessis successfully defending his UFC Middleweight Championship against Sean Strickland, the South African fighter seemed to set his sights on a new challenge—the reigning Light Heavyweight Champion, Alex Pereira. Their brief but intense exchange has led to widespread excitement about a potential champion vs. champion showdown.

Could this be one of the most high-stakes fights in UFC history? Here’s everything we know so far about this potential blockbuster clash.

The Post-Fight Exchange Between Pereira & Du Plessis

After securing a decisive win over Sean Strickland, Dricus Du Plessis walked toward the section where Alex Pereira was standing. According to Pereira, Du Plessis said something to him inside the cage, but at the time, he didn’t understand because he doesn’t speak English fluently.

Later, in the hallway, Pereira approached Du Plessis for clarification.

“I asked him if what he said was directed at me. He stopped, looked at me, and said yes. So I told him, ‘Let’s make it happen.’ He agreed, we shook hands, and that was that. He wants it, I want it—the decision is up to the UFC.”

That short exchange was enough to ignite speculation about a superfight between the two champions.

What Would Be at Stake in a Pereira vs. Du Plessis Fight?

If the fight between Pereira and Du Plessis happens, it could be one of the biggest champion vs. champion bouts in UFC history. Here’s why:

A Battle of Champions: With Pereira reigning at 205 pounds and Du Plessis holding the 185-pound title, this fight could take place at either middleweight or light heavyweight, making it a unique crossover event.
Pereira’s Quest for Greatness: Pereira has already conquered two divisions: middleweight and light heavyweight. A win over Du Plessis would further solidify his status as one of the most dominant fighters in UFC history.
Du Plessis Moving Up? If Du Plessis is willing to move up to 205 pounds, it would be a significant challenge for him. Can he handle the power of a true light heavyweight like Pereira?
UFC Superfight Potential: With Israel Adesanya currently taking a break from fighting, the UFC is in need of a blockbuster event. A Pereira vs. Du Plessis fight could be the answer.

How Would Pereira and Du Plessis Match Up?

This potential fight brings together two vastly different fighting styles. Let’s break down their strengths and weaknesses:

Alex Pereira: The Heavy Hitter

Record: 10-2 (MMA), former kickboxing world champion
Strengths: Unmatched power, elite striking, and experience in two weight classes
Weaknesses: Ground game still evolving, cardio concerns in five-round fights

Pereira’s power is legendary. He has knocked out Israel Adesanya, Jamahal Hill, and Jiri Prochazka—all elite competitors. His striking is calculated, and when he lands clean, it’s game over. However, he’s shown vulnerabilities against high-level wrestlers, which could be a factor against Du Plessis.

Dricus Du Plessis: The Relentless Grinder

Record: 21-2 (MMA), UFC Middleweight Champion
Strengths: Cardio, pressure fighting, grappling ability, and resilience
Weaknesses: Striking defense tends to take damage before overwhelming opponents

Du Plessis is known for his unorthodox yet effective style. He fights with relentless pressure, pushing the pace and breaking opponents with sheer determination. His grappling skills and ability to absorb punishment make him a tough opponent for anyone.

What the Experts Are Saying

MMA analysts and fighters have weighed in on the potential outcome of this fight.

Michael Bisping (Former UFC Champion & Analyst):

“If this fight happens at 205, Pereira has the advantage. He’s more powerful, more experienced, and Du Plessis would have to deal with that size difference.”

Chael Sonnen (MMA Commentator):

“People underestimate Du Plessis. The guy is tough as nails and doesn’t stop moving forward. If he gets Pereira tired, this could be interesting.”

Daniel Cormier (Former UFC Heavyweight & Light Heavyweight Champion):

“It all comes down to wrestling. If Du Plessis tries to stand and trade, he’s getting knocked out. If he mixes in takedowns, he could make it a fight.”

Will the UFC Book This Fight?

While the interest from both fighters is clear, there are some hurdles before this fight can become reality.

Pereira Has a Fight Lined Up

Pereira is scheduled to defend his Light Heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313. If he wins, the UFC might consider allowing him to face Du Plessis next.

Du Plessis May Need to Defend His Title First

Before he moves up to light heavyweight, Du Plessis might have to defend his middleweight belt, possibly against contenders like Khamzat Chimaev or Israel Adesanya if he returns.

The UFC’s Pay-Per-View Strategy

The UFC usually reserves superfights for massive PPV events. If Pereira vs. Du Plessis happens, expect it to headline a major card—possibly UFC 315 or later.

How to Watch the Potential Fight

While nothing is confirmed yet, here’s where the fight could happen if it gets booked:

Event: Potentially UFC 315 or UFC 316
Location: Las Vegas, Madison Square Garden, or a major international venue
Streaming: ESPN+ PPV, UFC Fight Pass

Final Thoughts: Will Pereira vs. Du Plessis Happen?

There’s no doubt that a fight between Alex Pereira and Dricus Du Plessis would be one of the most exciting matchups of the year. Both fighters want it, the fans want it, and the UFC loves booking high-profile superfights.

However, with Pereira’s upcoming title defense and Du Plessis potentially having to defend his middleweight belt first, it may take a few more months before this clash becomes a reality.

If the UFC books this fight, expect fireworks. This would be a battle of power vs. pressure, striking vs. grappling, and two champions looking to make history.

Until then, we’ll have to wait and see if the UFC can make this dream fight happen. Would you want to see Pereira vs. Du Plessis? Who do you think wins?

Let the debates begin!