Sean Strickland calls for "scientific study" on Alex Pereira's power after recent sparring session, 'Poatan' responds

Sean Strickland has first-hand experience of being at the receiving end of the famed power of Alex Pereira. The Brazilian handed Strickland a devastating first-round knockout loss during their encounter at UFC 276.

Two years after that loss, the pair have kindled a bond of shared dedication to growth, often engaging in sparring sessions. 'Poatan' was also in the corner of the American when he waged a five-round war against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297.

Most recently, they engaged in light sparring, and a video of the session was posted on ESPN MMA's Instagram handle.

Check out the video below:

After the latest sparring session, Strickland has doubled down on his marvel at Pereira's power, asserting that it requires a "scientific study." He wrote:

"@alexpoatanpereira why do you punch so hard? We gotta get a scientific study on this man's power... Great seeing you man!"

Pereira shared a similar sentiment, writing:

"It's always a pleasure to train with Brother!! We are always evolving!!"

Check out the interaction below (via @ChampRDS on X):

Since their fight in 2022, Pereira and Strickland have carved out successful paths for themselves. 'Tarzan' went on to claim the middleweight throne at UFC 293 against all odds. Despite losing the title, he remains at the forefront of the title contention landscape, occupying the No.1 spot on the divisional rankings ladder.

Pereira, meanwhile, went on to become the first and only fighter to win the UFC middleweight and light heavyweight championships, achieving the feat in merely 11 fights since turning professional. He has defended his 205-pound throne twice and fans are lobbying for the Brazilian to contest for a third title in the heavyweight division.

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When Alex Pereira shed light on why he cannot be "great friends" with Sean Strickland

Before his fight against Alex Pereira, Sean Strickland was on a roll, collecting six straight victories, with notable wins over Brendan Allen and Jack Hermansson.

However, the Strickland fight became the stepping stone for Pereira's hot pursuit of the gold and the victory served as fodder for the fast-tracked title shot. Despite the loss, there seems to be a sense of camaraderie between the pair, as they are frequently spotted training together.

In a previous interview with FULL SEND MMA, Pereira touched upon the barrier that hinders the growth of their association. He said:

"I have a very good relationship with him. Cannot be a great friend because I think the English barrier blocks us a little bit. But he came, [and] we trained together after our fights. I came here to support him, I think he gonna do good. I like him a lot.”

Catch Pereira's comments below (3:30):