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Alex Pereira often carries himself in a stoic manner, rendering him difficult to read. However, one of the most notable aspects of his personality, which has caught fire on social media, is how often he uses the word 'chama.' To fans, the word has become Pereira's catchphrase.
Heading into UFC 300, Pereira used the catchphrase several times. Thus, it was co-opted by Zhang Weili and Deiveson Figueiredo, the latter of whom, as a Brazilian, is more familiar with the word and its many variations. In many viral clips, Weili was seen greeting Figueiredo with the phrase when they ran into each other.
Check out Zhang Weili and Deiveson Figueiredo using the phrase here.
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What does 'Chama' mean?
Non-Portuguese speakers may be confused over what 'Chama' truly means. In Portuguese, the word has several meanings. 'Chama' can mean 'flame' or ' call' as in 'call him.' The second meaning is derived from 'chama' being a shortened version of 'chamada,' which is a more formal word for 'call.'
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However, Pereira used it as slang for 'let's go,' which he explained to his UFC 300 title challenger, Jamahal Hill during a backstage interaction.
Alex Pereira speaks about 'Chama' becoming a popular catchphrase among fight fans
Alex Pereira's unique personality and willingness to test himself against elite competitors irrespective of circumstances has transformed him into one of UFC's most reliable stars. His catchphrase 'Chama' has also become popular in the MMA community.
Pereira expressed his joy at receiving support from the MMA fans while interacting with the members of MMA media heading into UFC 303. He said:
"I am happy to be creating this, kind of, movement. I've been putting it on my shirts, I've been doing my stuff. To have people supporting me and saying 'chama' wherever I go, wearing the shirts and everything, It's very cool."
Check out Alex Pereira's comments here.
On the professional front, Pereira is set to attempt the third defense of his light heavyweight title against Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307 on Oct. 5. This will be his third competitive appearance in less than six months. 'Poatan defended the title against former champions Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka at UFC 300 and UFC 303, respectively.
