Weather has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of UFC Freedom 250, the special White House card taking place on the South Lawn in Washington.
The event was always going to be challenging because an outdoor fight card leaves the UFC exposed to rain, storms and lightning delays.
That made conditions part of the pre-fight conversation in the hours leading up to the card. However, just hours before that unique card, Alex Pereira assured everyone that everything will be all right in that regard.
Alex Pereira tells UFC Freedom 250 fans to ‘relax’ over rain fear
Pereira shared a video on Instagram before the event, joking that he had already sorted out the weather.
The two-weight champion said: “What’s up, guys? Chama! Look, I have a very important message. A lot of people are talking about the weather, because of the White House event. But, look, you can relax, because I’ve already connected to nature and it’s not gonna rain. Chama.”
The moment fits Pereira’s calm public image before a huge opportunity. If he beats Gane for the interim heavyweight title, he will become the first three-weight champion in UFC history.
Weather forecast may still work in Alex Pereira’s favour
The Weather Channel’s outlook for Washington pointed to a high chance of rain around the start of the White House card, scheduled for 8pm ET, which remains a concern for the early fights.
But the forecast also suggested the rain risk should drop as the night goes on. That could help Pereira, as his fight with Gane is expected to be the penultimate bout on the card.
So while the UFC may still have to manage weather issues early, the Brazilian star is unlikely to be fighting in the rain.
