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Alex Pereira criticizes Herb Dean after UFC Freedom 250 stoppage controversy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 3:32 PM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Alex Pereira criticizes Herb Dean after UFC Freedom 250 stoppage controversy

Summary

Alex Pereira and his coach, Plinio Cruz, expressed strong criticism of referee Herb Dean following the controversial stoppage at UFC Freedom 250. Pereira, who was competing to potentially capture a title in three weight classes, was subjected to alleged illegal strikes during the match against Ciryl Gane. Pereira contends that these strikes hindered his ability to recover and claims that Dean's officiating has been subpar. Dean defended his actions, asserting that the strikes were legal according to UFC rules. Pereira has called for action regarding Dean's officiating, suggesting he should no longer referee future fights.

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By the Numbers

•Pereira faced Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 on June 17.
•He alleges multiple illegal hits during the fight, affecting his performance.
•Herb Dean maintains the strikes were within legal limits.
•Pereira calls for Dean's retirement from officiating.
•Pereira's coach pointed out inconsistencies in Dean's explanations.

Latest Updates

3:32 PMYahoo Sports — Alex Pereira calls on Herb Dean to retire after controversial UFC Freedom 250 stoppage: 'His time is up'

What they're saying

"
Alex Pereira and his coach, Plinio Cruz, are continuing their verbal onslaught on Herb Dean following the UFC Freedom 250 dispute. 'Poatan' was one win away from being the only fighter in UFC history to capture gold in three separate weight classes. Knocking out Israel Adesanya and Jiri Prochazka ...
— Yahoo Sports

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