Light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and former title challenger Anthony Smith reconciled their differences ahead of UFC 307, expressing mutual respect after a period of public disputes stemming from Smith’s critical analysis of Pereira’s performances.
Light heavyweight champ Alex Pereira and former title challenger Anthony Smith have finally buried the hatchet. This comes after a heated exchange through interviews and social media.
The two met ahead of UFC 307, where Pereira will defend his title against Khalil Rountree. Their meeting took place at a local tattoo shop in Salt Lake City, sparked by Smith reaching out to Pereira’s longtime coach, Glover Teixeira.
“I am thankful to you for reaching out,” Pereira told Smith. “Ever since you spoke to Glover, I don’t think there is any malice, there’s no bitterness about the back and forths that we had. Today, I’m much better. I feel really good.”
The tension between them stemmed from Smith’s analysis of Pereira’s performances. As an analyst for the UFC and various podcasts, Smith critiqued Pereira’s fighting style. He insisted it wasn’t “talking shit” but just honest critique.
In response, Pereira challenged Smith to a grappling match. Smith fired back, promising he would “choke the shit out of him” if they ever faced off.
Despite maintaining his critical view on Pereira’s fighting style, Smith emphasized he wasn’t aiming for low blows or causing trouble. He was just doing his job.
During their meeting before UFC 307, Smith made sure to express his respect for Pereira. “Aside from the competitive rivalry or whatever it was before, I’ve got a lot of respect for you,” he said. “I’m a big fan of your game. I love watching you fight.”
Pereira echoed similar sentiments, downplaying their previous exchanges. They were more about headlines than genuine animosity.
“Some people can’t imagine it because sometimes we talk a little bit of trash on the internet or even because of a rivalry,” Pereira explained. “Even with people that I’ve already fought, I always try to bring close to me because I’m a guy who’s evolving. I think these people can help me and I make the most of it.”
Now, Pereira can add Smith to his circle of trust. Previously, he befriended past opponent Sean Strickland, who helped him prep for Rountree ahead of their showdown on Saturday.
And there you have it—a tale of rivalry turned respect in the world of MMA.