Former two-division champion Alex Pereira is reportedly unhappy with the UFC, a situation that could potentially lead to a pause or even the end of his fighting career in the near future.
On Wednesday, the 37-year-old fighter posted a cryptic message on social media regarding an apparent disagreement with the promotion. Pereira did not reveal the specific nature of his issue but stated, “I always answered the UFC’s calls, but if they want to play with me, we can do that. I’ve never spoken poorly of the UFC but with what I’ve just heard I’m disheartened.”
He further added, “I’ve already had thoughts of not fighting anymore, and after what was just relayed to me this may be the start.”
The exact reason for the timing and tone of Pereira`s message remains unclear. “Poatan” lost his light heavyweight title to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 this past March, and there has been no official announcement concerning his next fight, although discussions about an immediate rematch have occurred.
Prior to the loss against Ankalaev, potential future opponents mentioned included a superfight with UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones and a possible challenge from middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, who expressed interest in moving up to 205 pounds.
Over the past three years, Pereira has established himself as one of the UFC`s most prominent and reliable athletes. He fully transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2021 after a distinguished kickboxing career. He quickly rose through the ranks, eventually capturing the middleweight title from longtime rival Israel Adesanya at UFC 281. Following a rematch loss, he successfully moved up to light heavyweight, securing a second championship and continuing his impressive run.
It is not publicly known whether Pereira`s concerns with the UFC relate to potential opponents, the timing of his next bout, a financial dispute, or other factors.
UPDATE: Pereira later claimed his social media account had been hacked.
