Alex Pereira’s hype ahead of his UFC 320 rematch with Magomed Ankalaev has taken an unexpected turn. The former light heavyweight champion is normally all business in the gym, known for his brutal strikes and unwavering concentration. But recent footage suggests his training routine may not be fully dialled in this time around, leading fans to wonder if his title ambitions are taking a backseat because of some offbeat distractions.

In a fun behind-the-scenes post on his Instagram, Alex Pereira released a video titled “Alex Pereira training expectation vs. reality,”, switching between rigorous workout recordings and minutes spent betting on the Stake app. His post, “Rest between sets is important. Stake,” immediately caused concern and a wave of brutal verdicts from fans who expected a laser-focused strategy to recover his title.

“Lock in, bro” – Fans unhappy with Alex Pereira’s latest promo

While Alex Pereira’s personality and sense of humor have always been part of his appeal, fans have expressed concerns about whether his humorous approach indicates a lack of focus. Many emphasized the importance of the upcoming battle, with comments like “Lock in, bro, your legacy rides on this” and “For God’s sake, please take the rematch seriously 😭.” Many others jumped in, adding their shocked reactions such as, “Title fight coming up and he is gambling,” and “U can’t fumble this time too dawg.”

The fact that Magomed Ankalaev defeated the Brazilian in March adds to the urgency of his preparation, putting ‘Poatan’ under pressure to prove his ability to adapt and improve. Back at UFC 313, the Russian’s performance exposed flaws in Alex Pereira’s strategy, particularly in dealing with relentless pressure and pacing himself on the feet.

Despite his precision and punching power, ‘Pereira’ seemed hesitant under pressure, giving Ankalaev an advantage that fans are now concerned would be repeated if the 38-year-old does not refocus. Comments like “Yeah, he’s getting obliterated again,” “Now if you lose in October, I’ll know why,” and “So we aren’t getting the belt back” dominated the conversation.

The betting clip, which was supposed to provide comic relief, instead fueled concerns that the Brazilian might underestimate his opponent’s seriousness and the importance of the October fight. In fact, it’s not just the fans, as another UFC fighter believes ‘Poatan’ no longer carries the same motivation into the cage that once led him to championship glory.

Light heavyweight contender drops brutal verdict on Alex Pereira’s fate

Zhang Mingyang, a rising UFC light heavyweight contender, did not mince words while analyzing Alex Pereira’s chances in the upcoming UFC 320 rematch against Magomed Ankalaev. While fans and experts debate the Brazilian’s focus and training practices, Mingyang believes the Brazilian’s mindset is the real problem.

According to him, the stakes aren’t what they used to be for ‘Poatan,’ and his lack of passion could cost him dearly in October. “I think Ankalaev can defend his title because I think Alex Pereira is not as motivated as before,” Mingyang said in a recent interview with MMA Fighting.

He further added, “He has earned too much money. He’s too rich. I think no matter who you are as a fighter or as a human being, if you are too rich, you are just kind of lacking motivation compared to when you are young, when you are poor, when you are hungry.” The contender’s blunt statements highlight the growing belief that financial security might dampen a fighter’s competitive edge.

Mingyang did, however, offer Pereira a glimmer of hope. “I mean, if we can get the old Pereira back, he’s still, let’s say, a better striker than Ankalaev.” His assessment frames the rematch as a test of hunger rather than skill, a psychological struggle that could decide whether Alex Pereira reclaims his crown or cements Ankalaev’s dominance instead. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.