In the main event of UFC 307 in Salt Lake City, fans witnessed an exciting display as Alex Pereira defended his title against Khalil Rountree Jr. The Brazilian once again proved his strength, making a significant impact in the world of mixed martial arts.
This was Pereira’s third title defense, as he aimed to deliver a stellar performance following his previous knockout victory over Jiri Prochazka in May. Meanwhile, Khalil Rountree, ranked eighth in the division, sought to seize the opportunity of a lifetime in facing the world champion, and this matchup did not disappoint MMA fans.
Round One: The round started with a completely missed kick from “Poatan.” However, Khalil Rountree, displaying clear confidence, began to control the distance with precise strikes.
Challenger bringing some firepower 💥 #UFC307 pic.twitter.com/tbIooTVvc8
— UFC (@ufc) October 6, 2024
While Alex Pereira attempted to play off counter-attacks, Rountree was unhesitant in executing his powerful kicks. As time went on, the Brazilian managed to dominate the center of the cage, pressuring his opponent while patiently waiting for the right moment to strike.
Round Two: The champion tried to pressure his opponent, but Khalil Rountree managed to push “Poatan” back with combinations.
HUGE land for the Champ 👊 #UFC307 pic.twitter.com/2vmzRofzpw
— UFC (@ufc) October 6, 2024
Nevertheless, Pereira remained calm, delivering powerful strikes with his rear arm and effectively countering attacks. The round concluded with a high kick from the Brazilian, which Rountree defended well.
Alex Pereira was coughing between rounds, and it was later revealed by his coach that he had been taking antibiotics and had only trained for three weeks.
كان أليكس بيريرا يسعل بين الجولات، وكشف مدربه لاحقًا أنه كان يتناول المضادات الحيوية ولم يتدرب سوى لمدة ثلاثة أسابيع. pic.twitter.com/XVeDDIb1ky
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) October 6, 2024
Round Three: Rountree started the round strong, landing solid punches on the champion again. Alex Pereira responded with a powerful strike, hitting his target effectively. Rountree showcased his style, again defending against the Brazilian’s high kicks. On the other hand, “Poatan” ended the round strongly, choking his opponent and landing significant body knee strikes.
Round Four: Pereira’s powerful strikes began to shine through. In the center of the cage, the champion delivered a kick to Rountree’s calf. Demonstrating perfect distance management, the Brazilian dictated the exchanges, executing excellent torso movements. It seemed that striking without being hit became his motto for this round.
"Some people try to say he can't box, but the only big shot he got caught with was after a missed head kick."
البعض يحاول القول إنه لا يستطيع الملاكمة، لكن الضربة الكبيرة الوحيدة التي تلقاها كانت بعد ركلة رأس فاشلة." pic.twitter.com/K7rOkiKELe
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) October 6, 2024
With Rountree cornered, Pereira unleashed devastating rear-arm strikes and powerful blows to the American’s guard. Eager to finish off his opponent, “Poatan” intensified his knee strikes, leaving Rountree unable to respond. Upon impact to the body, the competitor collapsed, bloodied.
A true fighter, Khalil Rountree stood up to one of the most fearsome fighters and faced him without takedowns, showing courage and determination.
مقاتل حقيقي، خليل رونتري، وقف في وجه أحد أكثر المقاتلين رعبًا ونافسه بدون إسقاطات، بكل شجاعة وإصرار. pic.twitter.com/HWJyjGddaf
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) October 6, 2024
Result: Alex Pereira retained his title in the light heavyweight division after a brilliant victory over Khalil Rountree Jr.
After Pereira's victory, there's no one happier than Dana White, who celebrated the Brazilian champion's success with a smile that never left his face! 😁
بعد فوز بيريرا، لا يوجد من هو أسعد من دانا وايت، الذي احتفل بنجاح البطل البرازيلي بابتسامة لا تفارق وجهه! 😁 pic.twitter.com/qIQNLuG5k6
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) October 6, 2024
With this dominance, “Poatan” appears ready for greater challenges, especially with Ankalaev looming as a potential obstacle.
CHAMA 🗣️ CHAMA 🗣️ CHAMA 🗣️@AlexPereiraUFC | #UFC307 pic.twitter.com/wj1Hid0nH7
— UFC (@ufc) October 6, 2024
However, Pereira’s future in boxing may face hurdles, as Dana White seems unenthusiastic about this move.
Where will Alex Pereira go after this stunning victory? We will have to wait and see what unfolds next.
