UFC News Roundup: Pereira's Heavyweight Ambitions, Du Plessis Rematch, Fighter Arrests & More

Title Aspirations & Rematch Demands

• 🎯 Dricus Du Plessis is actively pursuing a rematch with Khamzat Chimaev for the middleweight belt, aiming for April and believing he can adjust his strategy to win.
• 🚀 Alex Pereira, the reigning light heavyweight champion, is determined to move to heavyweight to become the UFC's first three-division champion, potentially eyeing an interim title fight against Ciryl Gane.
• 👑 Nate Diaz has publicly declared his intention to reclaim the BMF title, stating he initiated the concept and has "unfinished business" with the belt.

Fighter Challenges & Career Paths

• 🎭 Jackie Buntan, a ONE Championship kickboxing world champion, is successfully balancing her elite fighting career with a burgeoning high-fashion modeling career, embracing a unique "alter ego."
• 🛠️ Ranked welterweight Jeff Neal is working as a waiter at Texas Roadhouse to maintain structure and sobriety, preparing for his upcoming fight against Uros Medic.
• 🌱 Erin Blanchfield is patiently awaiting her flyweight title shot, using the delays to continuously develop her skills against elite competition and refine her approach.
• 🧠 Kioji Horiguchi's return to the UFC flyweight division is significantly influencing teammates like Danny Sabatello, who benefits from Horiguchi's deep knowledge of Rizin rules, especially regarding grounded strikes.

UFC Event & Matchmaking Controversies

• ⚖️ UFC 326 faces a potential main event change, as a Joshua Van vs. Manel Kape flyweight title fight could replace the Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira BMF title rematch for top billing.
• 📊 Daniel Cormier explained the UFC's strategic decision to book Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title over Arman Tsarukyan, citing marketability and a looming White House event.
• 💬 Michael 'Venom' Page expressed frustration with his UFC London booking against unranked Sam Patterson, feeling he is not in the UFC's "good graces" despite his recent performances.
• ⚠️ Colby Covington doubts Conor McGregor will choose to fight him upon his return, suggesting McGregor will seek an easier, more striking-focused opponent.

Legal & Disciplinary Actions

• 🚨 UFC heavyweight Valter Walker was arrested in Miami following an altercation with Zion Clark, casting serious doubt over his scheduled appearance at Karate Combat 59 and his upcoming UFC Seattle fight.
• 🚫 Mohammed Usman was removed from the UFC roster after receiving a 30-month suspension for testing positive for testosterone and BPC-157, with officials citing aggravating circumstances for his delayed admission.