"Not beating Ankalaev like that"- MMA X reacts to Alex Pereira's "wholesome" grappling exchange with son on Christmas eve 

Fans reacted to a heartwarming video of Alex Pereira grappling with his son during a Christmas party. Pereira, who has a significant online presence and a massive fan following, often features his sons often feature in his social media posts.

The UFC light heavyweight champion recently shared a video of himself grappling with his son on his Instagram story. @ChampRDs re-posted the video on X.

Check out the video below:

Fans flooded the comments section to share their thoughts on the video. Pereira comes from a kickboxing background, but fan reactions primarily focused on his grappling prowess in the MMA realm. Many fans jokingly suggested that the video proves why 'Poatan' is "ducking' a fight against Magomed Ankalaev.

Check out some of the fan reactions below:

Fan reactions

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Alex Pereira and his sons wish fans a merry Christmas as the light heavyweight champion ends 2024 on a high note

In another Instagram video, Alex Pereira, along with his sons, thanked MMA fans for their continued support and encouragement. He then wished everyone a Merry Christmas using his popular catchphrase "chama:"

"Well folks, Merry Christmas to all of you. Here to thank you for all the support you've been giving. Your encouragement is very important to me. I'm here, today, with my children, on a very special evening, also with my friends. Let's celebrate this great day, shall we? And CHAMA!" [Translated from Portuguese]

Check out Alex Pereira's comments below:

Pereira appears to be enjoying a fulfilling family life while concluding 2024 on a professional high note. The 37-year-old defended the light heavyweight title three consecutive times, defeating Jamahal Hill, Jiri Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree Jr. by T/KO.

With his latest victory over Rountree Jr. at UFC 307, 'Poatan' set the new record for three title fight victories in the shortest time - 175 days, surpassing Ronda Rousey's previous record of 189 days.

Although No.1-ranked light heavyweight contender Magomed Anakalaev is widely considered the next likely challenger for Pereira's title reign, no official announcement has been made yet.