Pereira Confirms Gane Rematch Talks After Heavyweight Loss

Alex Pereira wants Ciryl Gane again for his next fight and believes the rematch is already taking shape.

The former two-division UFC champion told fans on Instagram that a second meeting with Gane makes the most sense following his June loss at UFC White House, where the Frenchman stopped him in their interim heavyweight title bout. "I'm seeing many opinions but I think the fight that makes sense is Ciryl Gane," Pereira said, per MMA Fighting. "From what I'm seeing, it's something that's going to happen."

Pereira Ready To Move Past Herb Dean Controversy

Pereira spent months after the loss publicly criticizing referee Herb Dean for what he claimed were uncalled illegal strikes to the back of his head during the finish. The Brazilian has now shifted focus entirely to redemption. He said another opportunity would let him prove himself and capture a third UFC title across three weight classes.

The UFC has not announced Gane's next opponent. The promotion had hoped to book Gane against undisputed heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall in a unification bout, but Aspinall remains sidelined eleven months after accidental eye pokes from Gane ended their first meeting in a no-contest. Both UFC CEO Dana White and Aspinall's manager Eddie Hearn have confirmed publicly that the Brit is not yet cleared to compete, which could open a window for Pereira to secure his rematch before year's end.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Alex Pereira seeking Ciryl Gane rematch for his next fight: ‘From what I’m seeing, it’s something that’s going to happen’