​Alex Pereira isn’t slated to fight at UFC 329, but the weigh-in day proved to be highly productive for the Brazilian legend. On Friday, “Poatan” turned up at the ceremonial weigh-ins for Conor McGregor, a showcase event that drew a notably animated crowd in the Irishman’s long-anticipated return. While there, Pereira crossed paths with Jon Jones, who’s in town to lend his support to his protégé Gable Steveson. The two put an end to their brief feud that simmered after Jones’ swaggering post following Pereira’s controversial setback to Ciryl Gane, with the highlights already circulating among fans.
In addition to meeting Jones, Pereira also encountered McGregor, who stars in the other half of UFC 329’s main event. The Mac appeared buoyant ahead of his clash with Max Holloway, taking a moment to chat with Pereira about his career and the aforementioned controversial loss to “Bon Gamin.” “Strong boys!” McGregor exclaimed to Pereira and his coach, Plinio Cruz. “Good blood! Champion blood! I feel very good, ready for a good fight. You’re doing great, brother, keep going. Unlucky last time, back of the head, I see it. But let it go. Let it go!” The moment culminated in a friendly photo opportunity between the two rivals turned almost teammates for the day.
Whether fair or not, McGregor isn’t the first to tell Pereira to move past the Gane defeat. After a mix of online campaigns and social-media skits that turned up in the wake of that fight, Pereira appears ready to bounce back. Earlier in the week, he confirmed plans to return to action in November at heavyweight, signaling a clear intention to regain momentum and close out 2026 on a high note by reclaiming a winning streak.
As the weekend approaches, Pereira’s focus remains sharpened on bouncing back inside the Octagon. The weigh-in day served as a reminder of the sport’s theater—the crowd, the banter, the photo ops—all while the work of getting back into championship contention continues behind the scenes. The Brazilian star has made it known that he aims to finish 2026 on a winning note, setting his sights on another run at prime form before the year ends. And with whispers of possible appearances from other fighters, including Josh Hokit, the UFC 329 environment is ripe for intrigue and potential continuity in Pereira’s storied career.