Alex Pereira expresses mixed feelings about Herb Dean after criticism
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 4:22 AM
Last updated Oct 22, 2026
UFC fighter Alex Pereira has publicly softened his stance on referee Herb Dean, admitting some sympathy for him amidst ongoing backlash. Pereira had previously criticized Dean's officiating during his fight at UFC Freedom 250 against Ciryl Gane. While recognizing Dean's role in protecting fighters, Pereira still prefers that Dean not referee his future bouts. He is preparing for a co-main event against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335 on December 12, where officiating will again be a key topic.
- •Pereira felt sad for Dean amid fan backlash.
- •He criticized Dean's officiating during his loss to Gane.
- •Pereira still wants Dean to be removed from his future fights.
- •He prepares for UFC 335 on December 12 against Pavlovich.
- •The officiating controversy adds complexity to the upcoming matchup.
- 4:22 AMYahoo Sports — Alex Pereira Makes Surprising U-Turn on Herb Dean After Public Criticism
"After publicly blasting Herb Dean for months, Alex Pereira admits he feels a bit sad for the veteran official amidst further backlash from fans.
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