What Does 'Chama' Mean? the Complete Guide to Alex Pereira's Famous Saying
By Elena Rostova
Q1: What is the exact English translation of "chama"?
A1: Literally, it translates to "flame" (as a noun) or "call" (as the imperative form of the verb chamar). In the urban slang context used by Alex Pereira, it translates functionally to "let’s go," "bring it on," or "count me in."
Q2: How do you pronounce "chama" correctly?
A2: It is pronounced SHAH-mah. The Portuguese "ch" sounds like the English "sh" in "shoe," with the stress placed on the first syllable.
Q3: Why did Alex Pereira start saying "chama" so often?
A3: It is standard street and gym slang from his home state of São Paulo, Brazil. Because Pereira speaks limited English, he leaned into the phrase during UFC media appearances, turning an everyday habit into an instantly recognizable personal brand.
Q4: Is "chama" related to Pereira's indigenous Pataxó heritage?
A4: No. While Pereira's nickname "Poatan" (meaning "Hands of Stone") comes from the indigenous Tupi language, chama is modern Brazilian Portuguese street slang.
Elena Rostova holds a Master's degree in Public Health Journalism. She covers groundbreaking medical research, holistic wellness trends, mental health awareness, and nutritional science.
