In a surprising turn of events, Alex Pereira, the current UFC light heavyweight champion, has issued a grappling challenge to Anthony Smith, with a whopping $50,000 on the line. The challenge comes amidst a heated exchange between the two, which has been escalating in recent weeks.
According to Pereira, the origins of the beef stem from Smith’s constant criticism of him. In a interview, Pereira explained, “It’s always something else to discredit me.” This perceived disrespect has culminated in a high-stakes grappling match, where Pereira is willing to put his skills to the test against Smith.
In a video statement, Pereira laid out the terms of the challenge, saying, “I make a bet with Anthony Smith. I let him take my back, put the hooks in, and give him five minutes to finish me. We can bet. Like he said, I’d win a $50,000 bonus. He said it was a sure thing. So, if he sees me saying this here, I want him to accept.”
The challenge is straightforward: Smith will start in a dominant position, with Pereira’s back, and will have five minutes to finish the match. If Smith succeeds, Pereira will concede defeat and pay the $50,000 penalty. However, if Pereira can escape and stand up within the allotted time, Smith will be on the hook for the $50,000.
Pereira emphasized, “If I get up in one minute or four minutes, no matter. I stood up, he lost, he pays $50,000, got it?” The champion’s confidence is evident, as he believes he can overcome any obstacle Smith throws his way.
The stakes are high, and the grappling community is eagerly awaiting Smith’s response. Will he take on the challenge and risk losing a substantial sum of money, or will he decline and avoid the confrontation? One thing is certain – this high-profile grappling match has the potential to be one of the most exciting and intense showdowns in recent memory.
As Pereira concluded, “Just need to finish with the locked position. Nothing more. It’s on, Alex. Agreed. Ready. High five for him.” The ball is now in Smith’s court, and the world waits with bated breath for his response.
