TLDR
- Alex Pereira says a rematch with Ciryl Gane is happening next despite losing by second-round knockout
- Pereira cited ‘illegal shots’ controversy from their first fight as reason for the rematch
- Josh Hokit criticized the rematch plan, saying Pereira has no wins at heavyweight
- Hokit argued that Pereira should earn his way back like other fighters
- The UFC is rumored to be planning the rematch despite Pereira’s loss
Sources: middleeasy.com | sports.yahoo.com | mmamania.com
Alex Pereira is calling for a rematch with Ciryl Gane following their recent heavyweight bout that ended in controversy. The former two-division champion lost to Gane by knockout in the second round but claims the fight should be run back.
Pereira pointed to an ‘illegal shots’ controversy as the reason for wanting another chance against the French heavyweight. The 39-year-old Brazilian fighter says the rematch is the logical next step in his heavyweight campaign.
Hokit Questions Pereira’s Title Path
Rising heavyweight contender Josh Hokit has publicly criticized the rumored rematch. “The Incredible Hok” took to social media to express his frustration with the proposed booking.
“As a fan, that fight makes no sense,” Hokit wrote on X. “I watched you get demolished. How about a more favorable match up like Sergei who is basically a striker & way less athletic than Ciryl.”
Hokit continued his criticism by pointing out Pereira’s record at heavyweight. The contender noted that Pereira has not secured a win in the heavyweight division yet is being considered for another title opportunity.
“How about you get one win in this weight class before you are gifted another title shot,” Hokit wrote. He went on to list several heavyweights he believes Pereira cannot defeat, including himself, Sergei Pavlovich, Curtis Blaydes, and Volkov.
Alex Pereira just dropped a video on instagram
He said the fight that makes the most sense for him is the Ciryl Gane rematch
And it’s most likely headed in that direction 🤨 pic.twitter.com/L4l5VsCm8P
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) September 7, 2026
The Team Alpha Male fighter argued that defeated champions should have to earn their way back to title contention. “Make them earn it and fight their way back like everyone else,” Hokit stated in his social media posts.
UFC’s History With Rematches
The UFC has shown a preference for booking rematches, especially when high-profile fighters are involved. The promotion often runs back matchups that generate fan interest and pay-per-view sales.
Pereira remains a major draw for the UFC despite the knockout loss to Gane. The Brazilian striker previously held titles at middleweight and light heavyweight before moving up to the heavyweight division.
The first fight between Pereira and Gane saw the Frenchman clearly winning before the second-round finish. Gane was picking apart Pereira with his striking before securing the knockout that sparked the back-of-the-head controversy.
Hokit suggested that Pereira should face an easier opponent like Pavlovich before getting another title shot. The contender believes the UFC is showing favoritism to Pereira based on his past accomplishments in lighter weight classes.
The heavyweight contender also mentioned the rumored rematch between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. Hokit grouped both potential rematches together as examples of fighters not having to earn their way back after losses.
Pereira’s status as a fan favorite and proven pay-per-view draw likely plays a role in the UFC’s willingness to book the rematch. At 39 years old, the promotion may want to capitalize on Pereira’s remaining star power before he retires or declines further.
The rematch has not been officially announced by the UFC. However, Pereira’s recent statements suggest he believes the fight is moving forward as his next booking in the heavyweight division.
