League: UFC Sport: MMA Country: Global Category: General

Ciryl Gane defeats Alex Pereira to capture interim heavyweight title

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 4:41 AM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Ciryl Gane defeats Alex Pereira to capture interim heavyweight title

Summary

Ciryl Gane won the UFC's interim heavyweight championship by defeating Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250 on Sunday. Gane showcased a dominant performance, stopping Pereira in the second round with a TKO after a series of effective strikes, following a competitive opening round. Gane is now set for a potential rematch with heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who has been sidelined since their last fight ended unexpectedly. Pereira expressed disappointment in the loss but indicated a willingness to discuss his future options in the sport.

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Key Details

•Gane captured the interim heavyweight title for the second time.
•The fight ended with Gane winning by TKO at 1:27 of Round 2.
•Gane dominated the bout with effective striking and defense.
•Pereira attempted low kicks and head punches early in the fight.
•Gane called for a rematch with Aspinall, planned for September.

Latest Updates

5:33 AMESPN — Gane crushes Pereira, captures UFC's interim title...
4:34 AMCBS Sports — UFC Freedom 250 results, highlights: Ciryl Gane earns interim title with brutal beating of Alex Pereira

What they're saying

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Ciryl Gane captured the UFC's interim heavyweight championship for a second time on Sunday night, crushing former two-division champion Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250 at the White House.
— ESPNby Brett Okamoto