Khalil Rountree Jr. explains decision to not go for takedowns against Alex Pereira at UFC 307: "It would not make sense"

Khalil Rountree Jr. recently discussed his upcoming fight against Alex Pereira at UFC 307 and explained his decision not to shoot for takedowns or engage in wrestling. Rountree Jr. vowed to stick to his "game plan" and outlined how he intended to stick to striking for the fans' entertainment.

'The War Horse' is set to challenge Pereira for the light heavyweight title at UFC 307 this weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah. Since the beginning of fight promotions, the 34-year-old has consistently maintained that he didn't plan on wrestling or grappling with the former Glory kickboxing champion and planned to stick to striking for as long as possible.

Given Pereira's incredible prowess as a striker and a notoriously powerful left hook, many wondered if Rountree Jr. wasn't serious about not wrestling and was engaging in some mind games to throw the Brazilian off his game. However, 'The War Horse' recently doubled down on his promises.

During a UFC 307 pre-fight press conference, Rountree Jr. explained why he wanted to engage in a striking battle with Pereira. When asked about it, he said:

"The main thing I was trying to say is that I've worked myself hard enough to get to this point. It would not make sense to switch who I am as a fighter, to completely switch the game plan to secure the win."

He continued:

"The main reason that I've always wanted this fight, really, is for the fans. You got two of the best strikers in the world going at it and that's what I want to give the fans."

Catch Khalil Rountree Jr.'s comments below (7:30):

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Stephen Thompson previews Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307

UFC welterweight Stephen Thompson recently shared his thoughts on the Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. light heavyweight title fight. The veteran striker pointed out how Pereira holds a significant power advantage over Rountree Jr. and predicted the Brazilian to win.

During an interview with Submission Radio, Thompson stated that he's looking forward to watching a great striking display from both men and shared his preview of the 205-pound title clash. He said:

"Alex Pereira has been on fire, and his power, along with the reach advantage he has over guys... He's beating guys before they get out there; they're afraid of this guy. Khalil, I think it's going to be a great fight, man, to be honest. Great striking fight. I'm looking forward to it, but I'm leaning towards my man, Alex Pereira, to win it. But I think people are sleeping on it, man. I think Khalil, if it stays standing, it's going to be a tough one for both."

Catch Stephen Thompson's comments below (13:11):