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Alex Pereira aims for UFC return in November following TKO loss

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 10, 2026, 3:14 AM

Last updated Jul 10, 2026

Alex Pereira aims for UFC return in November following TKO loss

Summary

Alex Pereira has announced his desire to compete again in November after his second-round TKO loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14. Pereira, a former champion in two categories, is focused on returning to the heavyweight division. He is likely to fight Josh Hokit, who is ranked closely behind him, with their bout possibly on the card at Madison Square Garden. Pereira criticized referee Herb Dean's performance in his last fight, citing missed illegal strikes. He has said that he must stay active to pursue another title shot.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Pereira last fought on June 14, 2026, at UFC Freedom 250.
•He suffered a TKO loss while attempting to become the interim heavyweight champion.
•Pereira wants to fight Josh Hokit, ranked No. 5 in heavyweight.
•His target date for return is November, coinciding with UFC's Madison Square Garden event.
•Pereira criticized the refereeing during his last fight.

Latest Updates

3:14 AMYahoo Sports — Alex Pereira Reveals Desired UFC Return Date

What they're saying

"
Former UFC light heavyweight and middleweight champion Alex Pereira has revealed his desired return date for his next fight. Pereira last fought at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14 when he suffered a second-round TKO loss to Ciryl Gane in a failed bid to become the interim UFC heavyweight champion and the first three-division champion […] The post Alex Pereira Reveals Desired UFC Return Date appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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