Glover Teixeira has backed Alex Pereira to secure a finish in his next fight.
Alex Pereira is scheduled to take on Sean Strickland in a stacked card at UFC 276. The fourth-ranked contender at middleweight will welcome the former Glory double champion in what may be a top contender bout. Pereira grabbed the attention of the community as soon as he signed with the UFC and fans have clamored for the promotion to give him a title shot.
Glover Teixeira believes Alex Pereira can finish Sean Strickland
In an appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, Glover Teixeira extended his support for teammate Pereira. Teixeira believes that ‘Poatan’ has the ability to finish any fight early with his power.
As per the former UFC Light Heavyweight king, the fight may not go the distance if Pereira finds the timing. Either way, the camp will be prepared to go the full three rounds, if necessary.
“Yes, he’s a very tough opponent, we know that. That’s why he’s there, this guy is no joke. He’s a very good striker and we prepare for that, we know where we’re going.
“Alex can end any fight early, if Alex catches the right time, the power the guy has, he can fight anyone in the world and he can end the fight. But Sean Strickland is not like that. He’s not easy to hit but it’s time. If he’s ready to go three rounds, Alex is prepared for that too.”
Teixeira says a title shot is next for Pereira
Many people have called for Pereira to match up against Adesanya, and if both men come out on top of their contests, they very well may. ‘Stylebender’ had spoken about Strickland being the tougher matchup whereas Pereira remained confident he will get the title shot next.
Teixeira said that a shot at the gold next is the most probable option. A fight with Izzy already has the story behind it but Cannonier is an interesting option as well.
“Yeah, I think George is already saying that to the media. George is the one to work with that, him and Alex. I’m just over there as a training partner, friend, help him out on the ground”
“The fight is there already. The winner of this fight and Alex, of course, we’ll focus on Strickland, he’s tough as nails but we’re always looking for victory. If Adesanya wins, I think he will. It’s a tough fight too but for sure him and Alex, man, or either if Cannonier wins.”
Israel Adesanya will take on Jared Cannonier at the T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, NV on July 2 at UFC 276. Sean Strickland will face Alex Pereira on the same card.
