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Israel Adesanya Backs Alex Pereira for Historic UFC Title

2026-06-29 · Israel Adesanya · Player Focus

Israel Adesanya Backs Alex Pereira for Historic UFC Title

Israel Adesanya is backing Alex Pereira to make history at UFC White House. The former middleweight champion posted a video to his YouTube channel this week, supporting Pereira's bid to beat Ciryl Gane in the interim heavyweight title co-main event on June 14.

What's at stake?

Pereira holds a 3-1 edge over Adesanya across their four meetings in two sports, including two UFC middleweight clashes. Adesanya wants Pereira to become the first fighter to win titles in three weight classes in UFC history.

Why it matters for Israel Adesanya

Adesanya called the June 14 matchup against Gane a legitimate test, citing the Frenchman's footwork, grappling skills, and knockout power. He framed Pereira's shot as destiny, saying "this is bigger than anything".

What comes next?

Tom Aspinall is still recovering from his own bout with Gane, leaving the heavyweight division in flux with Jon Jones' status unclear. Adesanya called the Pereira-Gane pairing exactly what the weight class needed, ahead of the UFC White House event on June 14.

Adesanya acknowledged some fans might not understand rooting for a former opponent. He said playing a role in someone achieving the unprecedented appealed to him, adding that he picked Pereira by finish.

Pereira captured the light heavyweight belt after taking the middleweight strap from Adesanya at UFC 281. Adesanya compared Pereira's pursuit of a third divisional crown to historic achievements like the first person to climb Everest or run a four-minute mile.

The New Zealand fighter said he just wants to see Pereira do it, calling it a cool moment. UFC White House takes place on June 14 at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue with the interim heavyweight title on the line.

Adesanya's support for Pereira is a significant endorsement, given their rivalry. The outcome of the fight on June 14 will be closely watched, as Pereira bids to make history in the UFC.

The event will feature a highly anticipated matchup between Pereira and Gane. Adesanya's prediction of a Pereira win by finish adds to the excitement surrounding the fight.

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