Michel Pereira Released by UFC after Seven Years
The Brazilian leaves the organization after 16 UFC appearances, multiple highlight-reel finishes and an inconsistent final stretch.
Michel Pereira's UFC run has come to an end. After more than seven years with the promotion, the Brazilian has been removed from the roster following his unanimous decision loss to Shara Magomedov at UFC Baku. The news was first reported by MMA Fighting after the outlet confirmed the information through sources familiar with the situation. The decision brings to an end one of the most entertaining and unpredictable careers among recent Brazilian fighters in the UFC.
Michel Pereira's Time in UFC Over
Pereira never became a champion or fought for a UFC title, but he built one of the most memorable careers among recent Brazilian fighters in the promotion. After signing with the UFC in 2019 and enduring a difficult start with two losses in his first three fights, the Brazilian found his rhythm.
Over the following years, "Demolidor" put together an eight-fight winning streak, with his last three victories coming by first-round finishes. Known for his unique and unorthodox style inside the Octagon, Pereira earned seven post-fight bonuses, including five Performance of the Night awards and two Fight of the Night honors.
Michel Pereira's Final Stretch
Pereira's winning streak came to an end in October 2024, and things never looked the same afterwards. Since then, the Brazilian has lost four of his last five fights. Following his split-decision win over Zachary Reese, Pereira received only a one-fight contract extension, making his bout against Shara Magomedov effectively a must-win. The defeat ultimately sealed his fate inside the UFC.
Michel Pereira's Controversy with Herb Dean
Pereira's release also comes just days after the Brazilian publicly criticized referee Herb Dean following his loss to Shara Bullet. During and after the bout, Pereira complained that the referee failed to penalize his opponent for pulling his hair and poking his eyes.
At 32 years old, Pereira now becomes a free agent for the first time since joining the UFC in 2019. With an entertaining fighting style and several memorable performances inside the Octagon, the Brazilian is expected to draw interest from other major MMA promotions as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.
