Alex Pereira claims X account was 'hacked' after controversial tweet about UFC

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has denied posting a cryptic tweet suggesting he was considering retirement, claiming on Wednesday that his account had been hacked.

The message, which appeared on Pereira’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, read, “I’ve already had thoughts of not fighting anymore,” and cited being “disheartened” by “things I’ve just heard” related to the UFC.

The post quickly spread across the MMA community, fuelling speculation that the Brazilian fighter might be stepping away from the sport.

However, hours later, Pereira responded in a video shared on Instagram, clarifying the situation and dismissing any retirement rumours.

“I’ve received a ton of messages... who saw a post from my Twitter,” Pereira said in Portuguese.

“I didn’t even know about it — I was hacked. It’s been a while since I’ve posted anything. But I’ll resolve it. I have a great relationship with UFC. People like to do bad things. That’s that.”

Pereira, 36, has not fought since March, when he lost his 205-pound title to Magomed Ankalaev via unanimous decision— his first defeat since moving up to light heavyweight.

The Brazilian, nicknamed “Poatan,” has previously held titles in both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions, and has publicly expressed his interest in a rematch with Ankalaev.

Despite the confusion caused by the tweet, Pereira reiterated his positive relationship with the UFC and gave no indication that he plans to step away from the sport anytime soon.

With both fighters seemingly open to a rematch, fans now await official confirmation on whether Pereira will get a shot at reclaiming his title — this time, with his social media locked down.