"Ultimate power move" - Fans react to Alex Pereira pushing Dana White to sign former kickboxing rival Artem Vakhitov after DWCS victory

MMA fans worldwide have taken notice of Alex Pereira asking Dana White to sign his former kickboxing adversary, Artem Vakhitov. Many acknowledged Pereira for putting aside his rivalry with Vakhitov, while others claimed that the Russian doesn't stand a chance against the reigning light heavyweight champion.

Vakhitov recently competed on 'Dana White's Contender Series' against Islem Masraf, pursuing a UFC contract and a potential rematch with 'Poatan' down the line. The 33-year-old made light work of his opponent, knocking him out at the end of the opening round.

After the event, White revealed that he consulted Pereira before handing Vakhitov a UFC contract.

Check out Dana White's comments below:

Fans soon rushed to the comments section to share their reactions.

One fan praised the White's decision, writing:

''Ultimate power move''

Another fan lauded Pereira for putting in a good word for Vakhitov.

''That’s a significant endorsement from Alex Pereira. It shows that Vakhitov is making an impression and could be a valuable addition to the UFC roster.''

Other fans wrote:

''Adesanya would’ve sh*t his pants and beg Dana not to let Alex in the ufc is the roles were reversed. Poatan is different.''

''I know people said him being there was hate watch and it may be but I think Alex is a cool mf dude fr for being there watching a guy who beat him and saying this guys deserves a shot''

Check out more reactions below:

Screenshots courtesy of ESPN MMA's post on X

Pereira also made an appearance at UFC Apex on Tuesday to witness Vakhitov's fight.

Notably, Pereira and Vakhitov clashed twice under the Glory Kickboxing banner. The Brazilian won their first encounter via split decision at Glory 77. However, Vakhitov got better of 'Poatan' at Glory 78, winning via majority decision.

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Dana White reveals his conversation with Alex Pereira before signing Artem Vakhitov

UFC CEO Dana White consulted Alex Pereira before signing former Glory Kickboxing champion Artem Vakhitov, who is now part of the UFC roster.

At the post-fight presser, White disclosed what he and Pereira discussed, saying:

''He [Pereira] said, 'This is what I think. I think he's [Vakhitov] talented enough and I think he deserves to be here...I think that the contender series, no matter where you fought or what you've done puts a different type of pressure on you... All I know is I'm glad I didn't have to go through the Contender Series.'''

Check out Dana White's comments below (0:50):