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Alex Pereira to Face Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335

The heavyweight bout is scheduled for December 12, 2026, in Las Vegas.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts

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Alex Pereira will move up to the heavyweight division to compete against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335 in Las Vegas on December 12, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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MMA fans in Las Vegas will see Alex Pereira step into the heavyweight division for UFC 335 on December 12, 2026. The two-time former light heavyweight champion plans to test his skills against Sergei Pavlovich before potentially returning to his former weight class.

Why it matters

Pereira has publicly cited his size relative to natural heavyweights as a key factor in his strategy. Should he fall in this high-profile matchup, his future in the division remains a significant question for fans of the sport.

Alex Pereira competes at UFC 335 on December 12, 2026, marking a shift from the 205-pound light heavyweight limit. Whether he permanently moves back to his former weight class depends on the outcome of this heavyweight clash.

The players

Alex Pereira

A two-time former light heavyweight champion preparing for a heavyweight bout at UFC 335.

Sergei Pavlovich

A heavyweight competitor facing Alex Pereira at the upcoming UFC 335 event.

The details

Alex Pereira is scheduled to face Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335 in Las Vegas. The fighter has stated he intends to return to the 205-pound weight class if he loses this heavyweight bout. The matchup serves as a trial for the former champion, who noted he is not as heavy as natural heavyweight fighters.

Timeline

  1. December 12, 2026: Alex Pereira fights Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335.

Beyond the Strip

This move reflects the ongoing trend of elite fighters testing themselves across weight classes, similar to previous champions who have navigated the UFC's established weight divisions. The fight follows the strict 205-pound threshold established for the light heavyweight division.

Fans planning to attend should watch for venue and ticket availability announcements as the December 12 event date approaches. Traffic around major arenas typically increases during marquee UFC weekends, so prepare for extra travel time on the day of the fight.

The takeaway

Keep an eye on whether Pereira successfully competes at heavyweight or if he immediately begins plans to return to the 205-pound division. Monitor the official UFC 335 card updates for the confirmed host venue in Las Vegas.

Further reading

For more on upcoming bouts in the valley, visit the Mixed Martial Arts section.

Live Poll

Do you believe it is beneficial for athletes to publicly consider their backup plans before competing?