Another UFC superstar has joined the artificial intelligence trend that is sweeping social media. After Conor McGregor recently joined the viral “Barbie Box Challenge,” Alex Pereira has followed suit, combining AI-generated fun with a sharp advertising edge. The trend, powered by OpenAI’s latest image generator, GPT-4o, has participants designing cartoonish doll representations of themselves, which are packed inside a colorful box with custom accessories. ‘Poatan,’ who never misses an opportunity to connect with fans and sponsors, put his own touch on the challenge by collaborating with his longtime partner, Aviator by SPRIBE.
Pereira shared an AI-themed image of himself inside a Barbie-style box on Instagram with the caption, “Flying high with @aviator.spribe.” The picture instantly gained attention, not only for its humor, as it sure is fun to see a stoic Alex Periera as a doll, but also for how smoothly it integrated with his ongoing sponsorship. For those unaware, the Brazilian has been an active Aviator ambassador, frequently tagging the company in his photos and attending their events.
The sponsorship arrangement requires the former UFC light heavyweight champion to promote Aviator through social media and marketing initiatives. The relationship between Pereira and SPRIBE is part of a wider strategy that began in October, when Aviator signed a multi-year contract with UFC. As part of the agreement, Aviator branding is prominently displayed at UFC Fight Night and Pay-Per-View events, and the campaign also provides opportunities for UFC athletes to become brand ambassadors.
Alex Pereira is now merging cutting-edge AI trends and brand marketing, so fans can expect even more inventive material from the champion in the near future. However, while fans would surely love to see this side of the Brazilian, the same cannot be said for Magomed Ankalaev. After all, the man who dethroned Pereira off the light heavyweight throne has been looking forward to getting himself a match against the former light heavyweight champion, but it seems like the only thing welcoming him is sheer silence.
Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Periera fight still in limbo
While Alex Pereira continues to ride the AI wave and welcome brand collaborations, Magomed Ankalaev is stuck in a painful holding pattern. After defeating ‘Poatan’ at UFC 313 and claiming the light heavyweight title, the Russian behemoth was looking forward to a quick rematch—a chance to confirm his victory and stop any discussion of luck or timing. He even circled August on his calendar, giving followers hints that Chicago could be the battleground. However, instead of a thundering answer from Alex Pereira, what came back was static.
The stillness has gotten louder over time. Despite Pereira’s guarantee that he will return to training shortly, Ankalaev’s patience appears to be running out. His post on X — “Alex Pereira, do you still like fighting? I have a feeling you are done” speaks volumes. Not as a challenge, but as an expression of frustration. The Brazilian, who is now in Japan, has not made an official announcement about his retirement. Despite the fact that he is 37 years old and recovering from a broken hand, the delay has left a void filled only with speculation and cryptic posts.
Fans, who have already missed out on major bout announcements for International Fight Week on June 28, are becoming increasingly frustrated. Last year, Alex Pereira stepped in against Jiří Procházka when Conor McGregor backed out, resulting in a thrilling main event. This time, however, the rematch that was intended to kick off the summer feels more like smoke than fire. While ‘Poatan’ is working on improving his image and utilizing cutting-edge technology, the fight industry simply wants him back in the cage. What do you think? Will we get to see Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira’s rematch in June? Let us know in the comments.
The post After Conor McGregor, Alex Pereira Creates Shockwaves With Internets Biggest Trend Despite Magomed Ankalaev’s Desperation appeared first on EssentiallySports.
