Alex Pereira has publicly expressed frustration over a refereeing error by Herb Dean at UFC Baku, stating that the mistake played a role in Michel Pereira's subsequent release from the promotion. Pereira's comments highlight his belief that the officiating decision had lasting consequences for the fighter.
Alex Pereira has spoken out against referee Herb Dean following UFC Baku, arguing that a critical officiating error in Michel Pereira's fight contributed directly to the Brazilian middleweight's dismissal from the promotion.
The reigning UFC light heavyweight champion made his feelings clear, stating that the mistake carried real consequences beyond the night itself — consequences that ultimately cost Michel Pereira his UFC contract. Pereira's intervention puts a high-profile spotlight on a refereeing call that might otherwise have faded from discussion.
Michel Pereira, 32, had been competing in the middleweight division and entered UFC Baku ranked 15th in the world. The Brazilian fighter, known by the nickname "Demolidor," carries a professional record of 32-15-0 and fights out of Overcome Academy. Standing six-foot-one with a 73-inch reach, he averaged 4.46 significant strikes per minute at a 51 percent accuracy rate, and added 1.21 takedowns per 15 minutes to his game — a well-rounded profile that made his release a notable development.
Alex Pereira, nicknamed "Poatan," holds a 13-4-0 record and currently stands atop the light heavyweight division at 39 years of age. The six-foot-four Brazilian, who operates out of Teixeira MMA and Fitness, is one of the most prolific strikers in the UFC, landing 5.16 significant strikes per minute at an exceptional 62 percent accuracy rate and boasting a 79-inch reach.
Why it matters
- A sitting UFC champion publicly criticizing a prominent referee raises the stakes for how the promotion addresses officiating accountability.
- Michel Pereira's release removes a ranked middleweight contender from a division still sorting out its hierarchy below the championship level.
- The episode reignites broader debate around the consequences of refereeing errors on fighter careers and livelihoods.
