Pereira Won't Wait On Aspinall-Gane For Heavyweight Return

Alex Pereira plans to book his next heavyweight fight without waiting for Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane to settle their expected title rematch.

Pereira dropped the light heavyweight belt to challenge Gane for the interim heavyweight strap at UFC Freedom 250 in June but was stopped via second-round TKO. Despite the setback, the former two-division champion told fans during a Q&A session before UFC Belgrade that he intends to stay at heavyweight and fight again soon, according to MMA Mania.

Pereira Eyes Quick Turnaround Before Title Shot

"I do not know what will happen, and I do not know how long that fight will take," Pereira said when asked about waiting for the Aspinall-Gane clash. "For sure I want to fight before, and after that I want to fight for the belt."

The Brazilian has been vocal about the officiating in his loss to Gane, claiming referee Herb Dean failed to warn the Frenchman about illegal strikes to the back of the head. Pereira went as far as calling for Dean to be removed from officiating duties. The former champion entered the UFC Freedom 250 co-main event chasing his third divisional title but came up short against Gane's wrestling and ground strikes.

Pereira indicated he remains committed to the heavyweight division and eager to rebound quickly. No opponent or date has been announced for his next appearance.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Alex Pereira won’t wait on Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane before his next fight: “I want to fight for the belt”