Alex Pereira has been named the recipient of the 2026 Forrest Griffin Community Award. The UFC presents this award to fighters who have made significant contributions beyond the octagon, including charity work, community service, and positive social impact. Pereira's recognition highlights his efforts to give back to society and help others outside of his fighting career. The award honors fighters who demonstrate excellence both in competition and in their broader community engagement.
Alex Pereira has been named the recipient of the 2026 Forrest Griffin Community Award, with the UFC announcing the honor on April 12, 2026.
The award is presented by the UFC to fighters who have made meaningful contributions beyond competition, recognizing charity work, community service, and broader positive social impact. Pereira's selection highlights his efforts to give back outside of his fighting career, demonstrating that his influence extends well past the octagon.
Pereira, known as "Poatan," is the reigning UFC Light Heavyweight Champion and holds a professional record of 13-4-0. The 38-year-old Brazilian trains out of Teixeira MMA and Fitness and has established himself as one of the most formidable strikers in the sport, landing 5.16 significant strikes per minute at a remarkable 62 percent accuracy. Standing six-foot-four at 193 cm with a 79-inch reach of 201 cm, he is a physically imposing presence both inside and outside the cage.
Why it matters
- The Forrest Griffin Community Award recognizes fighters who embody excellence in both competition and community engagement, placing Pereira among a distinguished group of honorees.
- As the current Light Heavyweight Champion and one of the UFC's most prominent stars, Pereira's recognition amplifies attention on athlete-led community initiatives.
- The award reflects the UFC's ongoing effort to celebrate the character and contributions of its fighters beyond their athletic achievements.
