
via Imago
Credits: Imago

via Imago
Credits: Imago
Amid the chaos of last-minute fights in UFC 315, Dana White and Co. have another shocker to handle. Alex Pereira just said something that has left us stunned. The former dual weight champ and Glory Kickboxing champ, unfortunately, lost his heavyweight title to Magomed Ankalaev, but he seemed to be pumped to come back as soon as possible.
In fact, he has saved UFC many times by taking short-notice fights like he did for UFC 303, but now things seem strained between him and the promotion. Pereira just sent chills through the MMA world with a cryptic message, which he posted on X: “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. I’ve already had thoughts of not fighting anymore, and after what was just relayed to me, this may be the start.”
What has happened? What did UFC tell him? Let’s not forget he took a short notice at UFC 303 against Jiri Prochazka. “I like taking these opportunities,” he had said. IN fact UFC 315 also had his help since this time ‘Poatan’ is slated to come at the VIP lounge. ‘On Location’ posted on Instagram about the news writing, “Exchanging left hooks for high fives 🔥 CHAMA.”
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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. I’ve already had thoughts of not fighting anymore, and after what was just relayed to me this may be the start.
— Alex “Poatan” Pereira (@AlexPereiraUFC) May 7, 2025
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But now things seem sour. Is it because of the possible issues with a potential rematch with new champion Magomed Ankalaev? Ankalaev defeated Pereira at UFC 313 and took the strap from the Brazilian. Many, including the Russian star, have said Pereira deserves the rematch, but nothing was on paper. Did UFC not agree to his rematch demands? The Brazilian is already 37 years old and has a lot of championship straps in his trophy case. However, this retirement news could have been on a lighter note rather than a grave one. Let’s run back some recent incidents to see what might be brewing beneath.
Alex Pereira’s rematch request after UFC 313
Pereira entered the UFC in 2021 and, since then, has only excelled in this climb to the top. However, the last loss was a big slump from which he was ready to bounce back. After the fight, he was seen relaxing with his crew in the hotel and made a video for fans. He calmly stated on social media, “That’s it, everyone, some marks, but I am good. Gonna rest a but I’ll be back.”
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He even posted his vacation to Brazil to heal with his Pataxó tribal heritage and traditions. Meanwhile, Dana White’s reaction to Pereira’s UFC 313 loss was not hostile at all! During the post-fight presser, he said, “It was not what I expected. I expected a lot more shooting, expected a lot more exchanges.” He further added that there would “probably” be a rematch while the reporter asked about it.
What’s your perspective on:
Could Alex Pereira's potential retirement shake up the UFC landscape as we know it?
Have an interesting take?
So now what’s this trouble in paradise? Did UFC deny his rematch requests? Did Dana White change his mind? Are they turning on one of their best and most accomplished stars? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
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Could Alex Pereira's potential retirement shake up the UFC landscape as we know it?