Alex Pereira’s Coach Linked With Fighting Return

Two-weight UFC champion Alex Pereira’s (13-3-0) head coach Plinio Cruz is ready to step out from the corner and back into fighting.

Cruz confirmed that he is targeting a return to competition by fall 2026, potentially ending a seven-year hiatus from professional fighting. Cruz last competed in 2019, and now at 40, the Brazilian is reportedly undergoing a significant weight-loss transformation to prepare for a return.

Cruz holds a pro MMA record of 8-9. He began his career at middleweight in 2008 before progressing through the weight classes. By the end of his initial run, he was in the heavyweight divisions of Bellator, M-1 Global, and CFFC. While Cruz is an MMA veteran, his return might actually take place in the boxing ring after talks with Misfits Boxing.

Cruz Reacts

X: @mma_orbit

“I turned 40 and I started to lose weight here, chilling. I started training and ‘Poatan’ started talking to me about fighting again. So I said the offer has to be good for me to put my cigar on the table and sign the contract. Then there came a good offer that we’re negotiating with Misfits. So most likely I’ll be fighting for the Misfits belt at the end of the American summer, which would be between August and September. So I’ll get ‘Poatan’ ready, I will help make him a champion, then it’s dad’s turn, right? Stay tuned, Daddy’s back,” Cruz said 

By aligning with the influencer boxing world, Cruz can leverage the massive popularity of Pereira. A fight against someone like Chase DeMoor creates a narrative of “The Coach vs. The Influencer,” which generates far more revenue. If Cruz wins, he cements his status as a “tough coach” and raises the profile of the Macaco Gold Team. If he loses, the narrative of “a 40-year-old veteran returning after 7 years” offers a built-in cushion that doesn’t necessarily tarnish his reputation as a world-class trainer.

Instagram: Pliniocruzmma

Despite the risks, this move is a “good” one for Cruz’s personal brand and financial future. The current market for crossover boxing is at an all-time high, and his connection to Pereira provides him with a “Golden Ticket” to the main stage. Most coaches remain in the shadows. By stepping into the ring, Cruz can write his own narrative.

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