Alex Pereira has expressed his indifference to Ciryl Gane’s training with Artem Vakhitov in preparation for their upcoming UFC fight. Pereira, on the cusp of achieving three-division glory in the UFC, is set to compete for the interim heavyweight title against Gane.
Interestingly, Gane is collaborating with Vakhitov, who previously defeated Pereira in a rematch at Glory 78 via a majority decision. Vakhitov has offered his perspective on Pereira’s fighting, noting that while his striking power is formidable and highly effective, his defense can be vulnerable due to his aggressive offense.
Vakhitov also commented on Pereira’s weight gain for his heavyweight debut, suggesting it might not be advantageous. He believes that Gane, a natural heavyweight and skilled striker, should employ aggressive tactics, pressure Pereira, close the distance, and control the fight’s tempo to secure a swift victory.
Alex Pereira Unfazed by Training Alliance
Despite Gane’s strategic alliance with his former kickboxing adversary, Alex Pereira remains unconcerned. Pereira stated that the dynamics between kickboxing and MMA are distinct, and he has significantly evolved as a fighter since his past encounters with Vakhitov. He suggested that if Vakhitov were to offer sincere advice to Gane, it would likely be a caution about Pereira’s toughness and formidable fighting spirit.
Vakhitov, analyzing Pereira’s strengths and weaknesses, highlighted his powerful “stone hands” as his primary threat, acknowledging his numerous knockouts in both kickboxing and MMA. However, he identified Pereira’s defensive vulnerability as a consequence of his potent offensive output. Vakhitov anticipates that Gane’s approach should involve pressuring Pereira, closing the distance, and dictating the pace to exploit these perceived weaknesses and achieve a quick finish.
English Translation
Alex Pereira has reacted to Ciryl Gane’s training with Artem Vakhitov before their UFC bout. Pereira, who is aiming for unprecedented three-division achievement in the UFC, will face Gane for the interim heavyweight title.
Gane is reportedly training with Pereira’s kickboxing rival, Artem Vakhitov, who handed “Poatan” a majority decision loss in their rematch at Glory 78. Vakhitov has shared his insights into Pereira’s fighting style, suggesting that while his striking is powerful and effective, his defense suffers due to his offensive focus.
Vakhitov also commented on Pereira’s weight gain for his heavyweight debut, suggesting it might not be beneficial. He believes that Gane, a natural 265-pounder and dangerous striker, should pressure Pereira, close the distance, and control the pace to secure a quick victory.
In response, Pereira stated that the training alliance makes no difference, emphasizing the disparity between kickboxing and MMA. He asserted that he is a different fighter now compared to when he fought Vakhitov, having evolved significantly. Pereira suggested that an honest Vakhitov would advise Gane to be wary of his toughness.
