Alex Pereira retained his UFC light-heavyweight championship with an emphatic stoppage win over Khalil Rountree in the fourth round at UFC 307, held in Salt Lake City on Saturday.
The Brazilian champion endured a moment of danger in the second round when he was knocked down by a powerful counter right hand from Rountree. However, Pereira, 37, bounced back and methodically dismantled the bloodied and fatigued American, eventually finishing him with a devastating uppercut.
With the victory, Pereira etched his name into UFC history by setting a new record for the shortest time between three successive title defenses. The record was previously held by UFC icon Ronda Rousey, but Pereira’s title defenses in April, June, and at UFC 307 now place him ahead, having successfully defended his belt three times in just 175 days.
Pereira, renowned for his striking prowess, has now earned four consecutive victories via stoppage, reaffirming his status as one of the most dangerous fighters in the UFC. His dominant run in 2024 includes notable victories over former champions Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka, but Rountree proved to be a formidable opponent.
Reflecting on the bout, Pereira admitted it was one of the most challenging of his career: “I can say that this was one of the toughest fights,” he said in his post-fight interview. “I expected that. He showed tonight why he’s got so much talent in here.”
Pereira, the former middleweight champion, had previously hinted at a potential move up to heavyweight or a return to middleweight. However, after his victory, he confirmed that he would remain at light-heavyweight, stating: “I can move up to heavyweight but this division is fantastic and this is where I am at.”
The Brazilian’s triumph improved his professional record to 12 wins and just two losses, while Rountree, showing grit but ultimately falling short, recorded his sixth defeat in 19 matches.
Pereira’s impressive run continues to captivate fans and critics alike, and his future in the UFC looks brighter than ever as he cements himself as one of the organization’s most formidable champions.
