Khalil Rountree Jr. remains optimistic about his future at the UFC after “The War Horse” was dismantled by light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira in UFC 307 with a brutal knockout.
Rountree JR remains positive
Alex Pereira didn’t disappoint at UFC 307 last weekend, and he delivered a brutal knockout to Halil Rountree Jr. at the stage of his death in the fourth round.
Despite the brutal knockout, Lone Tree hopes to continue moving forward with the prospect of a bigger fight, which held himself against the indisputable light heavyweight champion for nearly 20 minutes.
Through an Instagram post, Rountree said: “I didn’t win the title, but I grew up last night.”
“(Alex Pereira) Thank you for watching me get ready to challenge the world. You demonstrated amazing skills and you brought up the version of me that I need to experience. You are a champion for a reason.
“The War Horse” managed to go toe toe with Pereira in three rounds at the Octagon, but won with the fourth “Poitan.”
Halil Rountree Jr.’s postwar interview was interrupted by blood leaking from his nose in a terrible moment after an absolute war with Alex Pereira 🩸
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It’s great to see Salt Lake City absolutely love Khalil! The man is a warrior. pic.twitter.com/cbbhxfnqzt
-afeldmanmma (@afeldmma) October 6, 2024
Rowtree’s injuries were so severe after the match that the 34-year-old was taken to Salt Lake City Hospital as a precautionary measure.
“I will take the time to heal from now on. I will return even better, that is inevitable. I am grateful. I will never give up on myself and always find ways to enhance your community and make the most of my life.”
Although he lost, Lone Tree had the opportunity to win Pereira’s title early in the fight, but was unable to knock out the Brazilian champion.
For now, there are only rumors around who Rowntree can fight next, but with plenty of long breaks earning him, he won’t find his next opponent until 2025.