Alex Pereira Mocks Ciryl Gane's Champion Status After Tom Aspinall Vacates

Alex Pereira, the former two-division UFC champion, has voiced his opinion on Ciryl Gane's likely ascent to undisputed heavyweight champion. This follows Tom Aspinall's announcement that he is vacating the title due to ongoing recovery from eye injuries. Aspinall has not competed since his no-contest bout with Gane at UFC 321.

With Aspinall's unexpected indefinite leave from the division, Gane is expected to be recognized as the undisputed champion. Gane previously secured the interim title at UFC Freedom 250, where he defeated Alex Pereira by TKO in a highly anticipated co-main event.

Since UFC Freedom 250, Pereira has frequently alleged that Gane employed illegal tactics, specifically landing several shots to the back of his head during their fight. While referee Herb Dean has been a primary focus of Pereira's criticism, Gane has also faced scrutiny.

Following the significant shift in the heavyweight division's hierarchy, Pereira has dismissed the idea of Gane becoming the undisputed champion.

Alex Pereira Revives Feud with Ciryl Gane After Title Vacancy

In a recent Instagram post, Pereira sarcastically addressed Gane's potential new status.

"Lost to Francis [Ngannou]. Lost to [Jon] Jones, [Alexander] Volkov was a robbery, 10 illegal blows to Poatan's head," Pereira stated, before adding, "Champion [LAUGHS]."

As of now, Gane has not publicly responded to Pereira's comments.

It remains uncertain whether the UFC will officially promote Gane to undisputed champion or if he will have to compete for the vacant belt. Potential next opponents for Gane include UFC heavyweights Josh Hokit and Alexander Volkov.

A rematch with Pereira is also a possibility, despite his earlier loss. Pereira has reportedly met with UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell to discuss his next fight and indicated a positive outcome from their discussions.