Alex Pereira's Next Move: Glover Teixeira Backs Josh Hokit Challenge for Heavyweight Title Shot

Former UFC middleweight and light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira intends to remain in the heavyweight division.

Pereira recently moved up to heavyweight for UFC White House, where he challenged Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title. However, Pereira was defeated by knockout, with Gane's size and power proving decisive.

Following the loss, it was uncertain if Pereira would continue at heavyweight, but his coach, Glover Teixeira, confirmed that this is the plan.

"He's going to stay at heavyweight; that's the plan," Teixeira told Ariel Helwani. "He wants to fight all the time, but it's good to take time. He fought back-to-back for so long. He wants to fight. Alex always wants to fight."

Alex Pereira Could Face Josh Hokit Next

Once Pereira is ready to return, Teixeira is unsure of his next opponent. The ultimate goal is to secure another shot at the heavyweight title, and Teixeira believes Josh Hokit could be a suitable opponent.

"The plan with them, because Alex is a huge name and an exciting fighter to watch, and he sells. At some point, they will put him right back into the title picture. For him, pretty much any fight. Maybe we get this fight (Josh Hokit). He's been talking a lot of trash. Go over there and knock his ass out, get back to the top, and then get the rematch," Teixeira stated.

It remains unclear whether the UFC is interested in this particular matchup. However, on paper, it makes sense. The winner would likely earn a title shot, which is the objective of this fight. Furthermore, Hokit has been publicly criticizing Pereira, creating a compelling storyline that could position the bout as a co-main event on a major card.

Pereira's professional record stands at 13-4 and he is coming off a TKO loss to Gane. Within the UFC, he holds a record of 10-3 and is a former middleweight and light heavyweight champion.

Would you like to see Alex Pereira face Josh Hokit next?