Michel Pereira Moves to 185, Meets Marc-Andre Barriault at UFC Event on Oct. 14

Michel Pereira’s weight miss ahead of a proposed clash against Stephen Thompson at UFC 291 has prompted the Brazilian striker to change divisions.

Pereira will move to 185 pounds for a clash against Marc-Andre Barriault at UFC Fight Night on Oct. 14. Multiple outlets confirmed the booking following an initial report from Laerte Viana. The card is expected to take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas and includes a featherweight duel between Sodiq Yusuff and Edson Barboza.

Pereira missed weight by three pounds prior to UFC 291, which led to “Wonderboy” turning down the fight. The 29-year-old known as “Demolidor” has been victorious in his last five appearances within the Las Vegas-based promotion. Most recently, he took a split verdict over Santiago Ponzinibbio at UFC Fight Night 206 in May 2022.

Canada’s Barriault has won three of his last four fights under the UFC banner. “Power Bar” is 2-0 thus far in 2023, with victories against Julian Marquez and Eryk Anders to his credit.