Alex Pereira, a celebrated former two-division UFC champion, has consistently proven himself as a reliable and active fighter for the promotion. Known for stepping up on short notice, ‘Poatan’ has maintained an impressive pace, competing approximately four times annually since his UFC debut in November 2021.
In a groundbreaking move, Pereira recently vacated his light heavyweight title (205 pounds) to ascend to the heavyweight division. His ambition is to pursue an unprecedented third UFC championship. This historic quest will see him face former interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane in the co-main event of UFC 250 Freedom. This highly anticipated bout, with an interim title at stake, is scheduled for June 14th at the White House.
Ahead of this monumental event, and even before stepping from the iconic Oval Office to the octagon, Pereira finalized an extensive new eight-fight contract with the promotion.
Commenting on his decision and the new agreement, Pereira expressed, “Honestly, I just wanted to vacate my belt, move to heavyweight, and fight for a championship. I simply conveyed my desire for a heavyweight bout, and they genuinely took excellent care of me.”
He further elaborated, “They presented me with a new contract, and I am genuinely very pleased with it. I want to extend my gratitude to Mick Maynard, Hunter Campbell, and Dana White. With this new deal they offered, I’m not concerned about relinquishing my previous title or anything similar. They looked after me exceptionally well. The terms of this latest contract were so favorable that I’ve given them the flexibility to decide my future, whatever that may entail. It truly doesn’t matter.”
