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Alex Pereira Slammed For Knocking Out Sparring Partner

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Nov 30, 2025 12:13 AM ET

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira has been slammed after knocking out a sparring partner in the gym.

Pereira is considered one of the leading knockout artists in the division. Alex has secured five stoppages out of his last six fights, including a KO in his last fight against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320 to regain his light heavyweight title. And yet, when it comes to sparring there is a perception that fighters do not go all out in order to work on a particular skill, as well as to protect the safety of those in sparring.

Sean Strickland has previously been criticized for going too hard on sparring partners, namely non-MMA fighters, when he took on influencer Sneako. Now, Pereira is under fire. The following clip shows him connecting a powerful shot to the body, as his opponent lowers his guard. As he did so, Pereira then landed a punch to the chin to stop him.

Alex Pereira knocked out his sparring partner with a BRUTAL left hand

(via IG / standupstriking) pic.twitter.com/uRSHtNqWH2
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) November 29, 2025

Implications

The primary reason why knocking out a sparring partner is considered “bad” is the inherent risk to the partner’s physical health and career longevity. Sparring intensity is meant to be controlled, typically operating at 60-80% power to simulate fight conditions without incurring serious injury. A single, unnecessary knockout can lead to the sparring partner to take weeks or months off training.

Effective sparring requires both partners to be present and able to work on specific techniques, defense, and strategy. The moment one partner is actively trying to score a knockout, the session’s objective changes. Furthermore, once a fighter develops a reputation for “going too hard,” it becomes difficult for them to find willing and high-quality partners.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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