Ray Longo raises concerns over Alex Pereira's heavyweight capabilities
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 11:40 PM
Last updated Oct 8, 2026

Famed coach Ray Longo expressed doubt about Alex Pereira's ability to absorb punishment from heavier opponents ahead of his matchup with Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335 on December 12. Longo's criticism followed Pereira's recent TKO loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250, where he noted significant size differences and questioned Pereira's fighting style. Despite acknowledging Pereira's skill as a fighter, Longo fears that Pereira may struggle against larger opponents in the heavyweight division. The fight will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, as Pereira aims to secure a third UFC title.
- •Ray Longo voices doubts about Pereira's handling of heavyweight power.
- •Alex Pereira faces Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335 on December 12.
- •Pereira recently lost to Ciryl Gane by TKO at UFC Freedom 250.
- •Longo cites size and style differences as potential issues for Pereira.
- •Fight scheduled for T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
- 11:40 PMYahoo Sports — Famed coach worries about Alex Pereira handling heavyweight power
"Did the Ciryl Gane fight expose Alex Pereira's inability to take punches from heavyweight?
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