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Concerns emerge after Alex Pereira includes suspended fighter in UFC 320 camp

Originally posted on HITC | By Christopher De Santiago | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 9:35 AM ET

Alex Pereira is making every effort to reclaim his UFC title.

‘Poatan’ will face Magomed Ankalaev again in the main event of UFC 320, looking forward to regaining the belt he lost earlier this year.

Ankalaev took the light heavyweight title with a unanimous decision win over Pereira at UFC 313. The judges scored the fight 48-47, 48-47 and 49-46, giving the Dagestani a narrow victory.

Pereira stayed upright throughout the fight, defending all 12 of Ankalaev’s takedown attempts. However, it was the contender who landed more strikes over the five rounds.

Now, as he prepares for a tough rematch, ‘Poatan’ has brought in a familiar face for this camp – someone he once faced inside the Octagon but now trains alongside.

Sean Strickland joins Alex Pereira’s camp ahead of UFC 320

Sean Strickland has linked up with Alex Pereira once again.

The former middleweight champion, who is currently serving a suspension, previously faced Pereira at UFC 276 back in 2022, where he was stopped in the first round.

Since then, Strickland and Pereira have developed a strong relationship. ‘Poatan’ even had Strickland in his corner for title fights against Dricus du Plessis.

‘Tarzan’ confirmed on Monday his inclusion in Pereira’s camp, aiding his preparations for the Ankalaev rematch.

Strickland is currently serving a six-month ban from the UFC after assaulting another fighter following a regional bout. However, the suspension could be shortened if he completes an anger management course.

Some fans question whether Sean Strickland is the right fit to help Alex Pereira prepare for Magomed Ankalaev

Strickland may be a well-established middleweight, but not everyone is convinced he is the best fit to help Pereira get ready for someone as versatile as Ankalaev.

The 34-year-old star has always been more of a striker and, since his loss to Pereira, he has only attempted two takedowns.

Looks like Alex is in for another loss .

WHAT . . . is strickland going to Add to Alex's game – Strategic Thinking &
Composure ?

Strickland is an unhinged caveman .

Alex LOST on the cage wall and has a weak ground game – get THAT fighter to help fill the gaps – NOT sean .
— Elijah (@ElijahComments) September 8, 2025