Alex Pereira has never avoided a challenge, but his long-discussed clash with Jon Jones remains unresolved.
The proposed fight for the UFC White House card collapsed after Jones failed to reach financial terms.
That leaves uncertainty around a match-up many expected to define the sport. ‘Poatan’ has indicated the fight could still happen, though there is no guarantee it will materialise in the near future.
In the meantime, attention has shifted elsewhere. A fellow Brazilian fighter has entered the conversation, prompting a sharp and personal response from the former champion.
Alex Pereira responds strongly after Melquizael Costa backs Jon Jones
Melquizael Costa recently stated on Connect Cast that Jones would ‘smash’ Pereira if they ever fought. The comment drew a direct reaction from ‘Poatan’ on Instagram.
The two-weight champion said: “Brother, you can root for whoever you want and that’s fine! The problem is you claiming something you don’t even know, as if I did something bad to you.
“When I was in the LFA and you were there to fight, the day before you came and put the phone on my face while I was having coffee at the hotel and I was chewing, you didn’t even ask if you could, and I told you that you should have asked if you could record a video.”
He also raised questions about how Costa’s remarks could be influenced by the aforementioned episode.
“Maybe you got angry because I called you out. But I thought you weren’t angry because in Mexico we were having dinner together and I was supporting you while you were crying because you lost the fight, and now when you win two fights you’re already feeling almighty,” the heavyweight contender concluded.
Melquizael Costa’s current UFC situation
Costa, known as ‘The Dalmatian’, has quietly built one of the strongest runs in the featherweight division. He holds an 8-2 UFC record and is currently on a six-fight winning streak.
His recent performances have elevated him into headline status. He is scheduled to face Arnold Allen in the main event of UFC Fight Night on May 16.
Costa is currently No.12 in the division, but a potential win over Allen would certainly move him up in one of the most exciting UFC weight classes.
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