Former UFC heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos believes that Salvador native Jailton Almeida has what it takes to become a heavyweight champion just like he did in 2011. Almeida has won five consecutive fights in the UFC and has impressed dos Santos with his speed, body work, and ability to dominate his opponents. Though heavyweights are usually slow and easy to anticipate, Almeida is different with his lightning-fast movements. dos Santos thinks he has great potential and that the future of the heavyweight division is being made now.

Almeida is currently ranked sixth behind Francis Ngannou, Jon Jones, Sergei Pavlovich, Ciryl Gane, and Curtis Blaydes. However, with Ngannou joining the PFL and Jones expected to defend his UFC title against Stipe Miocic, Almeida may have a chance to move up in the rankings and potentially become a champion in the future. Jones has even hinted at retiring soon, and dos Santos believes it would be a shame for fans not to see him compete anymore.

Despite his past losses to dos Santos and Pavlovich, Almeida is not afraid to take on tough opponents like Tai Tuivasa. dos Santos even predicts that if he does face Tuivasa next, Almeida will be the favorite to win due to his impressive skills and dominating style.