Alex Pereira hits out at fellow UFC countryman

Alex Pereira was less than pleased with a fellow UFC fighter who hypothetically bet against him. Those who have opposed 'Poatan' throughout his MMA journey haven't had much success. The South American has been a force since switching from kickboxing, having one of the quickest rises from obscurity to superstardom in the UFC.

Less than five years after joining the company, the 38-year-old has the chance to become the first UFC fighter to hold gold in three separate divisions, but the belief in his ability continues to be questioned. While not many will argue against Alex Pereira's striking prowess, his lack of grappling leaves lingering doubts about his potential. Despite being a standup-focused competitor, Pereira was confident that he could pose enough threat to Jon Jones should they ever fight.

Rumors of the matchup generated much debate, and one man who sided with Jones, to Pereira's annoyance, was fellow Brazilian Melquizael Costa. Speaking to Connect Cast, the UFC featherweight announced Jones as his winner in the fantasy fight against Pereira. "Jon Jones would smash [Alex Pereira]," Costa said.

"He'd take him down to the ground, man. It'd be over. Everyone has a chance, sure, but I don't think 'Poatan' would be the favorite.