Dana White performs U-turn on Alex Pereira heavyweight switch

Speaking at the post-fight press conference on Saturday night, White said he wants Khamzat Chimaev to remain at middleweight and defend his title before making any moves.

Both champions at 185 and 205 pounds have discussed moving up, but ‘Poatan’ has a stronger case for doing so.

Pereira has gained favour despite not defending his reclaimed belt, largely due to his readiness to fight for the UFC on short notice or while injured, all while maintaining strong performances.

After the Brazilian star avenged his loss to Magomed Ankalaev last year, White questioned the point of a move to heavyweight unless it was part of retirement plans. However, following comments after UFC Houston suggest his opinion may be changing.

“He’s one of those guys that always steps up and does whatever we need him to. Whatever that guy wants to do, we would work with him,” said the UFC boss.

Alex Pereira has previously used his influence within the UFC

Despite Chimaev’s status as one of the promotion’s top draws, it is no real shock to hear White wants him to remain at middleweight a while longer.

While Pereira has already made the move up to light heavyweight, he has ticked off plenty of boxes during his time there.

He has stepped in on short notice, fought through injuries, and defended his belt multiple times in a short span – all of which fit the mould of what the UFC looks for in a champion.

Pereira has even used some of that goodwill before. There have been occasions where he successfully pushed for certain fighters to be signed by White.