While most English speakers need an interpreter to understand Alex Pereira—as the light heavyweight champion prefers to speak in Portuguese—they do recognize the word ‘Chama’. The man with the ‘Hands of Stone’ has immortalized the word, making it his catchphrase—as popular as his killer left hook.

So what does it actually mean? According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the word ‘Chama’ actually means ‘Flame’ or ‘Inspiration’ in Portuguese. However, the Brazilian uses the word as slang, to denote agreement or acknowledgment—something like ‘let’s go’ before a big game or performance. Very similar to the Hawaiian ‘Shaka’ gesture, that has become synonymous with surf and skate communities across the world. We know what ‘Chama’ but what ‘Chama or No Chama’? Is the Brazilian light heavyweight champion a game show host? Not quite. But, let’s take a closer look.

Meaning behind Alex Pereira’s ‘Chama or no Chama’

As part of his catchphrase, Alex Pereira has made it a habit to ask people, “Chama or No Chama?” The word itself is synonymous with the Brazilian juggernaut with fans always chanting the same in the presence of ‘Poatan’.

But what is ‘Chama or No Chama’? If you thought game show, then you’re half right. It was indeed a game Alex Pereira played with Sportsnet where he was asked to answer if he was onboard with something or not—’Chama’ signifying approval, and ‘No Chama’ signifying the opposite. When it came to packaged milk, it was a ‘No Chama’ for him. When it came to Justin Bieber he was ‘Chama’ all the way.

‘Poatan’ has also spoken about the catchphrase during UFC 303 media day. He said, “I am happy to be creating this, kind of, movement. I’ve been putting it on my shirts, I’ve been doing my stuff. To have people supporting me and saying ‘chama’ wherever I go, wearing the shirts and everything, it’s very cool.”

That’s all well and good, but what’s it going to be for Magomed Ankalaev? ‘Chama’ or ‘No Chama’? Well, the light heavyweight title contender had an answer ready.

People are going to say “No Chama”, claims Magomed Ankalaev

Ankalaev is turning up the heat against Pereira before their mega fight taking personal potshots and doing whatever it takes to get under the Brazilian champion’s skin. The Dagestani light-heavyweight is the last tough challenger for Alex Pereira’s strap after beating the majority of his top five in the division within a four-fight, 11-month run.

UFC veterans are sure that this fight will be a true test for ‘Poatan’ because only his striking might be able to neutralize a cold-blooded grappler like Ankalaev. The Dagestani has sent another cold message on the UFC 313 pre-fight presser. 

“I’d like to say that I see in this fight everyone is against me,” Ankalaev said in a chilling statement to the crowd. “Everyone is saying ‘Chama! Chama! Chama!’ But guess what? Chama time is over.” He challenged, “After this Saturday night, after the fight, you will all love me. The same people who are saying Chama now are going to be saying no Chama! It’s Ankalaev time.”

What do you think? In terms of keeping the belt—will it be ‘Chama’ or ‘No Chama’ for Alex Pereira? We could ask the same about Magomed Ankalaev. Who do you think will emerge victorious? Let us know in the comments down below.