LAS VEGAS — Ultimate Fighting Championship superstar Alex Pereira has been named the 2026 recipient of the Forrest Griffin Community Award, recognizing his growing impact beyond the Octagon through charity work and youth development initiatives.
The award, named after UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin, honors a fighter who demonstrates exceptional dedication to community service and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Dana White Selects Pereira for Prestigious UFC Honors Award
The Forrest Griffin Community Award is part of the annual UFC Honors program and falls under the President’s Choice category, personally selected by UFC President and CEO Dana White.
“Alex is one of the biggest stars in the world and it’s great to see him use his platform to give back,” White said. “By helping youth in Brazil through education and martial arts, he’s making a real difference.”
As part of the honor, Pereira will receive a $25,000 donation to a charity of his choice, courtesy of the UFC Foundation.
Instituto Poatan Changing Lives in Brazil
At the center of Pereira’s efforts is Instituto Poatan, a nonprofit he founded in 2024 after renovating a facility in São Paulo, Brazil.
The organization focuses on empowering underserved youth through:
- Free after-school tutoring
- English language education
- Computer literacy programs
- Nutrition support
- Brazilian jiu-jitsu training
Since its launch, more than 500 young people have enrolled in the program, with plans to expand even further in 2026.
Pereira’s mission is to use sport as a pathway to opportunity—helping kids build discipline, confidence, and better futures.
Global Outreach Beyond Brazil
Beyond his work at home, Pereira has extended his outreach worldwide.
The former two-division UFC champion regularly:
- Visits children’s hospitals
- Leads jiu-jitsu seminars
- Participates in youth mentorship programs
These efforts are often done in partnership with UFC initiatives aimed at supporting underprivileged communities.
Custom UFC Gloves to Support Charity
As part of the recognition, Pereira will collaborate with celebrity artist Ant Kai to create a one-of-one pair of UFC gloves under the promotion’s Gloves for Good program.
The gloves will be auctioned, with proceeds benefiting Instituto Poatan, further supporting its programs and expansion.
Honored During UFC International Fight Week
Pereira will officially be recognized during the 2026 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, which takes place during the 14th Annual UFC International Fight Week.
The ceremony is scheduled for July 9 at T-Mobile Arena.
From Champion to Community Leader
Known for his dominance inside the cage, Pereira has built an elite résumé in both MMA and kickboxing.
- MMA Record: 13-3 (10-2 UFC)
- Former UFC Middleweight & Light Heavyweight Champion
- Former GLORY Kickboxing Champion (Middleweight & Light Heavyweight)
But in 2026, it’s his work outside the cage that is earning global recognition—solidifying his legacy as not just a champion, but a role model.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, and Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and is also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer. He’s also the main photographer for the 4CornersMafia Car Club.
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