Former champion Alex Poatan is the 8th greatest light heavyweight in UFC history

Poatan appears at No. 8 in R. Evans' top 10 Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC

Alex Poatán is in the top 10 of the greatest light heavyweight champions (up to 93kg) in UFC history. At least that's what the former belt holder in the category thinks, Rashad evans. In a recent participation in the podcast 'The Bohnfire', the American placed the Brazilian in eighth position among the ten greatest title defenders, in his opinion.

However, even though Evans recognizes Poatan's potential, some factors, such as the lack of rivals who can put the Brazilian's grappling to the test, still keep the São Paulo striker away from the top of his list.

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“I wanted to put Alex Pereira higher, but here’s the thing: I feel like this era of light heavyweights isn’t what it used to be. I’m not saying it’s weak, but it’s not the strongest it’s ever been. I don’t say that to knock Alex, but I need to see more of him. As far as being one of the best of all time, I think his legacy is on the path to that if he can make it past that point.” UFC 307, I would definitely put him in the top 5. I still need to see more and I still need to believe that he can go in there as a skilled grappler and not only face the challenges in grappling, but be able to impose his will. He's coming in on a good roll, but to be one of the best in history, you need a little more than momentum,” explained the veteran.

Current holder of the light heavyweight belt (93 kg), Poatan puts his title on the line for the third time this Saturday (5) against Khalil rountree, in the main fight of the UFC 307, in Salt Lake City, United States.

In addition to Poatan, other Brazilians in Rashad Evans' top 10

In addition to Poatan, three other Brazilians appear in the top 10 of the greatest light heavyweight champions (up to 93kg) in the opinion of Rashad evans: Lyoto Machida (7º), Mauritius Shogun (9th) and Glover Teixeira (10th). The veteran's list is led by none other than Jon Jones.

Check out the top 10 Rashad evans below:

1- Jon Jones
2- Chuck Liddell
3- Tito Ortiz
4- Daniel Cormier
5- Randy Haute Couture
6- Frank Clover
7- Lyoto Machida
8- Alex Poatán
9- Mauricio Shogun
10- Glover Teixeira