Alex Poatan's future could be defined at UFC 321; understand

Alex Poatán at the entrance to the UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India

Alex Poatán its future may be defined this Saturday (25), during the UFC 321, in Abu Dhabi. Although not scheduled to fight, the light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg) will be watching the main event between Tom aspinall e Cyryl Gane, who are competing for the heavyweight belt (up to 120,2 kg), a division that could soon welcome the Brazilian.

After months of searching for a fight against Jon Jones to unify the interim and linear belts, Aspinall ended up being crowned champion without having to face the American. This is because 'Bones' officially announced his retirement, paving the way for a new reign in the UFC's most dangerous division.

Now, the British defends the title for the first time against Cyryl Gane, who is trying for the third time to take center stage in the division. In his previous attempts, the Frenchman was defeated by Francis Ngannou, by decision, and was finalized by Jon Jones in just over a minute.

See too

Will you get it right? AI predicts Aspinall vs. Gane and Virna vs. Mackenzie at UFC 321

Kamaru Usman points to 'new Ngannou' as future big name in UFC: 'Impressive'

Best Bets: Will Aspinall become the first athlete to knockout Gane? Check out our analysis and tips for UFC 321

Regardless of who leaves with the belt in UFC 321The next step may involve Alex Poatán. The Brazilian regained the light heavyweight belt by winning Magomed Ankalayev No. UFC 320 And, still in the octagon, he expressed his desire to move up to heavyweight. The goal, however, would not be to directly compete for the title, but to headline a super fight against... Jon Jones, planned for UFC Casa Branca.

Despite Poatan's interest, the return of Jon Jones seems unlikely. Dana White is suspicious of the former champion's desire to return to the cage. Although he hasn't made a public statement, 'Bones's' return may have become even more complicated after the untimely death of his brother, Arthur Jones.

Without Jones in the way, the change of Alex Poatán for the heavyweights it could represent a historic attempt: the Brazilian has the chance to become the first athlete in UFC history to win three belts in different divisions.

On the other hand, if the Pataxó decides to remain among the light heavyweights, another Brazilian could take the lead and seek an opportunity against Aspinall or Gane. Jailton Malhadinho, which faces Alexander Volkov in the same event, he can be accredited as the next challenger in case of victory.