“Real Threat” – Joe Rogan disregards Alex Pereira’s match-winning game plan ahead of UFC 307 against Khalil Rountree Jr.

UFC 307 is just around the corner and a sure battle of the “Titans” is on the horizon. The host is the Delta Center in Salt Lake City Alex Pereira And Khalil Rountree Jr. as they fight for the gold medal in the light heavyweight division. With the title hanging in the balance, MMA fans, commentators and pundits have begun to chart a course for how the actual fight will turn out.

The majority errs on the likely side of a striking clinic, with both men attempting to turn each other's lights out as they enter the Octagon. Both fighters are known for their devastating striking skills and tactical mindset. However, the eternal voice of the UFC Joe Rogan believes the defending champions will also look to activate other skills from their impressive arsenal.

Joe Rogan believes “Poatan” will try to neutralize Rountree Jr. with his grappling

The UFC has always been home to a variety of styles. It's common for fighters to try to mix different elements of the fighting game and be as well-rounded as possible. This was not the case with Alex “Poatan” Pereira. The Brazilian has always used his attacking techniques, particularly his 'left hook', to neutralize the best in the business.

Recently on his “The Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show” #154Rogan and his guests included Matt Serra, Din ThomasAnd John Rallo mentioned the possibility of “Poatan” adding a “twist” to grappling to his game. Rogan said: “He has to learn, you know! Why not! I mean, why not just do that? [grappling]? If he adds that, how many more punches will he land? There’s a real danger he could take you down, and by the way, how strong would this guy be on the ground?!” Serra shared the same opinion and strongly believed that Pereira would try to mix things up this time.

He explained: “I think Pereira will get involved in the takedowns. I mean, look at it, there's no one more confident on their feet than him, but he's hanging out with our good friend Glover Teixeira and you see him sparring and you see how he mixes it up. Is he just doing this for a laugh? His cardio maybe? Or! He could be dealing with Rountree and say, ‘You know what!’ Let me show them what I’m made of!”

These comments certainly challenge the general narrative surrounding Pereira's chances at UFC 307. Amid a polarizing view, many have predicted the outcome of this highly anticipated title fight.

Will it be “Poatan’s Night” or will we witness a changing of the guard at UFC 307?

Predictions and speculation in the UFC are as old as the sport itself. This is no different in the MMA juggernaut's latest offering for UFC 307, which is expected to go down in history as an all-timer. The popular opinion is that Alex Pereira will record his third successful title defense with prominent names like Sean Strickland predicted a dominant victory for “Poatan”.

He said: “We have had many wars. The problem with Alex is that he hits hard, folks – extremely hard. I just can't imagine Khalil making it. I don't think he has the resources to defeat Alex. He doesn't knock him down, he doesn't beat him, and he certainly doesn't outdo him in wrestling. I think Alex will make this fight easy.” However, this view is not shared by everyone. UFC veteran Chael Sonnen has full confidence that Rountree Jr. will win and emerge as champion. “The American Gangster” further added: “Rountree will run through Pereira.”

Kamaru Usman shared the same sentiment on his podcast “Pound for Pound,” which Henry Cejudo joined. “The Nigerian Nightmare” stated: “But no, listen, I think I'm going to shock everyone here. While you say that everyone just stands there and fights and loses, I believe that's what you do [Cejudo] incorrect. I think Khalil Rountree Jr. is shocking the world.” Even former UFC heavyweight, Brendan Schaub puts his money on “The War Horse.”

What do you think about the whole matter? Will we see Pereira in a form we've never seen before? Can Rountree Jr. do enough to improve the odds? Write your comments below!