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Alex Pereira criticizes Ciryl Gane after controversial UFC Freedom 250 fight

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 12:01 AM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Alex Pereira criticizes Ciryl Gane after controversial UFC Freedom 250 fight

Summary

At UFC Freedom 250, Alex Pereira expressed frustration over the fight's conclusion, where he believes illegal strikes to the back of the head impacted the outcome. Pereira, competing in his first heavyweight bout, is calling for an instant rematch after being stopped by Gane in Round 2. He cited Gane's exhaustion post-fight as indicative of a potential comeback had the match continued. Pereira also criticized referee Herb Dean for perceived failures in enforcing rules against illegal strikes. Following the fight, Pereira asserted he would not want Dean officiating his future bouts.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Pereira believes he was robbed by illegal strikes during the fight.
•Gane stopped Pereira in Round 2 at UFC Freedom 250.
•Pereira cites Gane's fatigue as evidence he could have turned the fight around.
•Pereira demands an instant rematch and criticizes referee Herb Dean.
•Pereira states Dean will not officiate his fights again.

Latest Updates

5:33 PMYahoo Sports — Alex Pereira calls out Ciryl Gane, Herb Dean after loss at UFC Freedom 250
12:01 AMYahoo Sports — Alex Pereira says Ciryl Gane was gassing out in controversial UFC Freedom 250 fight: 'He does not have heart'

What they're saying

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Pereira wants his shot at redemption after what he believes was a botched ending to his interim title fight at UFC Freedom 250.
— Yahoo Sportsby Drake Riggs