Alex Pereira is aiming to add another chapter to his storied career by earning a third UFC title. After a recent bid for the interim heavyweight crown in June, which ended with a knockout loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC White House, the Brazilian competitor remains determined to reach the top again, this time by 2027. Though he hasn't fully restarted training yet from the grueling bout in Washington, D.C., Pereira says the time until November gives him enough room to refocus and get ready for his next shot at a title.
In a fan Q&A session held in Serbia ahead of the UFC Belgrade weigh-ins, Pereira shared his belief that his journey in the UFC isn’t complete. "I still have one mission left," he stated clearly. "That mission is to win my third title. When I focus on something, I always achieve it." The June fight with Gane was a tough pill to swallow, but he’s confident he can avoid the same mistakes if given another chance to capture the belt.
Pereira's approach and outlook
Pereira is ready to take on any challenge that comes his way in pursuit of the title. Though he hasn't locked in an opponent yet, he’s prepared to step into the octagon with whoever the UFC sets against him. "Whoever they put in front of me, I'll fight," he said. He also mentioned the possibility of fighting at Madison Square Garden in New York, where the UFC hosts a big event each November. While the details are still uncertain, he’s keeping his focus on the goal.
He also shared his thoughts on the referee, Herb Dean, who oversaw his bout with Gane. While he wouldn’t say it was a "robbery," Pereira admitted there were errors in the judging. "Maybe I would've won? I don't know. But the fight definitely would've been different," he said, pointing out that the officials were aware of the rules but didn’t handle the situation properly.
Coping with setbacks and strength
This loss brought his UFC record to three defeats, all in championship fights across different weight classes. Pereira believes his ability to bounce back comes from accepting that setbacks are part of the sport. "I think I've already accepted that," he noted, explaining that this mindset helps him push forward and become stronger with each challenge.
He compared his experience to others who have never faced defeat before. For Pereira, it’s about acknowledging the pain without letting it define his path.
Right now, Pereira is using the time before his possible November return to regroup and prepare for another title push. With a history of overcoming tough losses, he feels ready to seize his next chance and accomplish what he calls his final mission in the UFC.