Partnership coming? Alex Poatan thanks former champion for support against Ankalaev at UFC 320

Poatan changes his look to fight. Photo: Reproduction/X/AlexPereiraUFC

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Alex Poatán may have one less rival in the UFC. Recently, Dricus du Plessis showed his respect for the Brazilian and indicated that he has a good chance of getting revenge on Magomed Ankalayev, light heavyweight champion (up to 93 kg), in the rematch scheduled for this Saturday (4), in Las Vegas (USA). Aware of the South African's statement, the renowned striker was also cordial.

Analyzing the UFC 320 rematch, Dricus described the former light heavyweight titleholder as brilliant and intimidating, and bet on his victory, possibly by knockout. In turn, Poatan thanked the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg) for his praise and support. Interestingly, until recently, the athletes had publicly exchanged barbs..

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The athletes even expressed interest in a superfight. At the height of their rivalry, Poatan questioned 'Stillnknocks' skill level, while Du Plessis claimed he would knock out the Brazilian. Now, it seems, a truce has been struck, with Alex recognizing the South African's importance in MMA. As a result, some fans have begun to project a possible training partnership between the pair.

"I just want to thank you for your kind words. He's also a guy who's important in the MMA world, in martial arts. So, it's always good to hear things like this and it's good to see his perspective on what might happen," the former UFC champion said in a conversation with reporters.

Poatan turns rivals into training partners

On his journey in combat sports, Alex Poatán has become accustomed to turning opponents into teammates. Currently, the Brazilian counts Yousri Belgaroui, a former opponent from his kickboxing days, as one of his main training partners. The renowned striker has also started training with Sean Strickland, after knocking him out in the UFC, with some frequency and left the doors open to start the same partnership with Israel adesanya, its biggest rival.