Alex Pereira sent shockwaves across the fight world a few days ago when he posted that cryptic message on X, suggesting he wasn’t happy with the UFC, leading many fans and pundits to speculate that there was trouble in paradise. Then, out of left field, he changed tone and revealed that it wasn’t he who posted that message and that his account was hacked. But was it, really? Is something amiss? That’s what we will find out in today’s MMA News Roundup.

After dissecting Alex Pereira’s cryptic message and a veteran’s reaction to it, we will then look at former UFC women’s featherweight champion Cris Cyborg and her quest for boxing glory. Finally, we will look at Gilbert Burns’ brother Herbert showing ‘Durinho’ support after his brutal loss against Michael Morales. So, without further ado, let’s get right into it.

Alex Pereira’s future in the UFC seems shaky?

‘Poatan’ found himself in the spotlight when the post of him threatening retirement on X went viral. “I always answered the UFC’s calls, but if they want to play with me, we can do that, ” Pereira posted. “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.” This post now stands deleted, but the buzz around it hasn’t died down.

Alex Pereira tried to damage control by taking to his Instagram account to allege that his X account was hacked. But former Strikeforce champion and UFC contender Josh Thomson doesn’t seem to believe the hacking story. He spoke about it in the Weighing In podcast, insinuating that the 37-year-old might have posted about his frustration on X and later changed his mind about the post.

“I’ve had conversations with a lot of these fighters’ managers,” Thomson said. “Dude, everybody’s disposable. No one’s safe these days. Conor [McGregor] is not safe, Alex is not safe; doesn’t matter who you are.” He warned Pereira and others to ‘mind their Ps and Qs’ and start accepting all fights UFC offers. “You have nowhere to go. Take it or leave it,” he ended. Will Pereira consider Thomson’s words? We’ll have to wait and see. For now, let’s move on to news about one of the most accomplished women in mixed martial arts.

Cris Cyborg wants to conquer a new realm

The MMA legend has already achieved a Grand Slam feat in women’s mixed martial arts by becoming a champion in 4 key organisations—Invicta, Strikeforce, Bellator MMA, and UFC. She has been near-unstoppable, and now she wants to achieve more.

The trailblazer wants to become one of the most successful female athletes in the whole combat sports world, and wants to become a titleholder in boxing. She declared, “It’s gonna finish my career amazing, to be crowned an MMA champion and a boxing champion. That’s one of the goals. So let’s see what’s gonna happen this year and next year.”

She has 17 title wins between UFC, PFL, Bellator, Strikeforce, and Invicta. Now she wants to add boxing accolades to the trophy cabinet as well. Last but not least, we’ll see what Gilbert Burns’ brother said after ‘Durinho’ lost to Michael Morales.

Gilbert Burns gets much-needed motivation from his brother

Gilbert Burns had a tough outing at the recently concluded UFC Fight Night 256. The welterweight veteran and former title contender was finished by the undefeated Michael Morales in the first round of their headliner bout. This loss marked Burns’ fourth loss in a row in the premier MMA promotion of the world.

Reacting to the loss, his brother, Herbert Burns, a former UFC featherweight, decided to say a few words to ‘Durinho’. Taking to Instagram, the younger Burns said, “Head up always mlk, MLK. I know you gave your best in training and in the fight, but the result was not as expected. May God comfort your heart! Nothing has changed, you are still a champion inside and outside the fight world, I love you.”

The bond between the two brothers is strong. Before this fight, Gilbert Burns heartily congratulated Herbert and Jennifer Burns on their recent marriage. He commented on the couple’s wedding post, writing, “Congrats 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾.” Family is everything in both good and bad times. On that note, what did you think of today’s MMA roundup? Did we miss any key stories? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.