Former two-division UFC champion Alex Pereira is contemplating retirement after his shocking defeat at UFC Freedom 250.
Alex Pereira’s pursuit of UFC history fell short at UFC Freedom 250 earlier this month. In his interim heavyweight title bout against Ciryl Gane, Pereira lost by second-round TKO to Gane in his highly anticipated heavyweight debut.
In the weeks after UFC Freedom 250, Pereira has repeatedly criticized referee Herb Dean and Gane, accusing Gane of landing several illegal blows to the back of the head in the final seconds of their fight. Dean responded to Pereira’s harsh remarks by making a detailed video explainer on why Gane’s strikes weren’t illegal, and where he considers the ‘back of the head’ to be when officiating.
Pereira wants a rematch with Gane, despite Gane likely fighting undisputed heavyweight titleholder Tom Aspinall in his next fight. A return to the light heavyweight division is also possible after Pereira’s recent successful run at 205 lbs.
Despite having several intriguing options for his next fight, Pereira is prepared to walk away if his desired changes to MMA officiating don’t come to fruition.
Alex Pereira threatens to retire after hearing Herb Dean’s explanation for alleged illegal blows
In a recent Instagram story post, Pereira admitted he’s prepared to hang up the gloves after taking several questionable shots at UFC Freedom 250.
“Honestly, I’m afraid to go back to fighting with all this going on,” Pereira said of how shots to the back of the head are officiated.
“I think I’ve already done my part.”
UFC CEO Dana White defended Pereira’s stance against Dean during a recent press conference, hinting that Gane’s infractions were ‘undeniable’. Pereira publicly called for White and the UFC to part ways with Dean for future events.
Should Alex Pereira return to heavyweight after his loss at UFC Freedom 250? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!