UFC: Alex Poatan meets Zlatan Ibrahimovic in Milan and surprises with size difference

UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Poatan met former football player Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, last Sunday, November 2, 2025. During a visit for business commitments, the Brazilian, known for his imposing physical presence, stood surprisingly smaller next to the Swede, who measures 1.95m. The event took place after Milan’s 1-0 victory over Roma, in the 10th round of the Italian Championship. Poatan, 1.93m tall and weighing more than 100kg out of competition, was accompanied by his team, including fighter Diego Lopes.

The interaction between the athletes was marked by a relaxed chat, mediated by coach Plínio Cruz, who acted as translator. Zlatan showed interest in the UFC, mentioning Poatan’s possible superfight at the White House in 2026.

• The meeting took place on the San Siro lawn, after the Milan game.
• Poatan and Diego Lopes represented the UFC at the event.
• Zlatan, former player and current manager of Milan, has a black belt in taekwondo.

Connecting sports

The meeting brought together two prominent figures in their fields. Poatan, UFC champion, is known for his career in kickboxing and MMA. Zlatan, in turn, made his mark in European football, with spells at clubs such as Barcelona and Manchester United.

The conversation between them, although brief, highlighted the mutual admiration between athletes from different sports.

Zlatan’s history with martial arts

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has a long-standing connection with martial arts. He has a black belt in taekwondo, a sport he has practiced since childhood. This experience influenced his playing style, marked by agile movements and precise shots.

The former player has already mentioned in interviews that taekwondo helped him develop discipline and body control. His relationship with the sport led him to follow MMA events, such as the UFC.

Zlatan’s interest in the UFC was evident when citing details of Poatan’s career.

Alex Pereira and Zlatan Ibrahimović sharing a moment in Milan 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/wdvZEtuXYk

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) November 3, 2025

Milan event details

The San Siro stadium was the venue for the meeting between Poatan and Zlatan. The Brazilian fighter’s visit to the venue included watching the Milan game, the club where Zlatan works as manager.

Poatan and his team were warmly received by Milan staff.

The event reinforced the UFC’s popularity in Europe, with Brazilian fighters gaining prominence.

The presence of Diego Lopes also drew attention, as the fighter seeks advancement in the UFC.

ImUFC meeting pact

The interaction between Poatan and Zlatan generated repercussions among sports fans. The image of the two together, shared on social media, highlighted the difference in height, surprising followers.

Dialogue about the 2026 superfight mentioned by Zlatan has fueled speculation about Poatan’s future.

Zlatan and interest in MMA

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has never hidden his passion for martial arts. In addition to taekwondo, he has already expressed admiration for MMA, following UFC fights. His black belt reflects years of dedication to the sport, which began in Sweden.

Visibility for UFC in Italy

Poatan’s visit to the San Siro increased the UFC’s visibility in Italy. The sport, which is growing in Europe, gained prominence with the presence of Brazilian athletes.

The meeting with Zlatan reinforced the connection between MMA and football, attracting new audiences.