Alex Pereira calls out Paulo Costa

Paulo Costa has been poking the bear in recent interviews, forcing a response from Alex Pereira.

‘Poatan’ didn’t enjoy the best of times in his search for unparalleled greatness last time out. The South American moved up to heavyweight in hopes of becoming the first fighter in UFC history to win championship gold in three separate divisions. A knockout loss to Ciryl Gane followed, and Costa has been mocking his fellow Brazilian regarding his performance.

Implying he doesn’t have the frame for heavyweight and would likely struggle if he persists with his decision, Paulo Costa urged Alex Pereira to move back down and stop chasing his dream. Stung by Costa’s comments, Pereira issued a firm warning: Continue talking and we’re going to fight.

“How long has Borrachinha been in the game?” Pereira asked. “I mean, look at everything I’ve achieved and what he’s achieved. Let’s just fight. Just fight and put it behind us. The guy knows that talking about me gets him noticed. It gets him attention. And look, I’m the kind of guy who can get a bit fired up.”

“I really truly want to fight at heavyweight, because, man, I’m 39. Time is running out. It’s coming to an end. I still have a shot at achieving this. I have a chance, and that’s what I want. But if I see I don’t have that chance, if my real shot is at light heavyweight, then I’d call Hunter [Campbell] right now and say, ‘Borrachinha wants to fight? Let’s fight. Let’s f***ing fight.’ What’s his contract situation? Oh, he doesn’t want a contract? He just wants his last fight? Then put him against me. Put him in there with me for his last fight. Since he doesn’t want to sign a new deal, I’ll make his life hell.”

Listen to Alex Pereira call out Paulo Costa and more in the video below.