LAS VEGAS – Conor McGregor will not compete this Saturday due to a broken toe, something his replacement Alexandre Pereira is very familiar.
“Poatan” defends UFC light heavyweight title on short notice against Jiri Prochazka in the main event of UFC 303, which takes place at T-Mobile Arena. This title fight was organized with just a few weeks notice, as the original headliner between McGregor and Michael Chandler was canceled due to the Irishman’s toe injury.
Interestingly, Pereira (10-2 MMA, 7-1 UFC) defended his belt in April with a knockout victory over Jamahal Hill at UFC 300, and entered the fight with a broken toe. Some criticized McGregor, while others defended his decision not to fight.
Pereira, who has already been through this, gave his opinion on the matter.
“I can never judge people’s pain, and it’s different scenarios, different situations,” Pereira said in Portuguese through a translator at UFC 303 media day on Wednesday. “He’s made a name for himself, he’s made his money and I’m halfway there. I fought with a broken toe in my situation, but maybe if I was in his situation, maybe I wouldn’t have fought, so I can’t judge.”
Pereira vs. Prochazka (30-4-1 MMA, 4-1 UFC) is a rematch, as the two fought in November at UFC 295. Pereira defeated Prochazka to win the vacant light heavyweight title. Since their first meeting, the two continued with victories in April at UFC 300 Pereira stopping Morro Jamahal It is Prochazka submits Aleksandar Rakic.
For more information on the card, visit the MMA Junkie events hub to UFC 303.
