Michel Pereira is known by many as a fun fighter. He uses his athleticism and bouncy personality to entertain the masses. That includes backflips, cartwheels, and flying knees to opponents. How can you not love such a fun guy who grows on you?
Apparently, the UFC didn’t think so when the Brazilian fighter performed a backflip against Ihor Potieria (20-6). As a result, he nearly got disqualified for a head kick. However, he still walked away with a submission win at UFC 301, defeating Potieria soundly.
What Constitutes Being Disqualified For Head Kicks?
According to the UFC, head kicks are considered illegal when the opponent is grounded. It can lead to a dangerous event for the opponent, who can suffer long-term damage. That’s what UFC officials looked at when Michel Pereira (31-11, 2 NC) landed his patented backflip. It was determined there was no foul with the kick, with the hometown hero winning the fight.
It isn’t just head kicks that are deemed illegal, though. It’s also knees to the head while the opponent is grounded which is illegal. The fighter is vulnerable in this state and can suffer long-term health complications if dealt a blow or two.
While Pereira got away with landing a kick on Potieria, that raises an intriguing question about his fighting style. Is the Brazilian middleweight a dangerous fighter? Or did he make a simple miscalculation while fighting Potieria at UFC 301?
The Verdict On Michel Pereira
Michel Pereira’s fighting style tends to be reckless, with his antics hurting Pereira in the past. In 2020, Michel Pereira lost by disqualification to Diego Sanchez. What happened in that fight? An illegal knee on a grounded Sanchez ended the fight.
This is the first time Pereira has gotten into trouble in the UFC for his style. It’s also not going to be the last, for he’ll continue his athletic style without a hitch. Therefore, he must be careful when landing his knees and patented backflips.
If he isn’t careful, it could cost him a hefty fine, a loss, or worse: a title shot. It’s something Pereira shouldn’t risk, especially if he has grander visions of competing as a middleweight. Otherwise, his fun-loving style will hinder him more than help him.
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