Former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira found himself at the center of a social media storm after a cryptic tweet from his X (formerly Twitter) account suggested he was considering retirement due to tensions with the UFC. The post read, “I always answered the UFC’s calls, but if they want to play with me, we can do that. I’ve never spoken poorly of the UFC but with what I’ve just heard I’m disheartened. I’ve already had thoughts of not fighting anymore, and after what was just relayed to me this may be the start.”

The message, which quickly went viral, alarmed fans and sparked speculation about a rift between Pereira and the UFC.

Hours later, however, Pereira took to Instagram to clarify that his account had been hacked.

“I didn’t even know about it, I was hacked. It’s been a while since I’ve posted anything,” the Brazilian star said. “I have a great relationship with the UFC. People like to do bad things.”

The incident comes at a pivotal moment for Pereira, who lost his UFC light heavyweight title to Magomed Ankalaev in March at UFC 313—his first defeat since moving up to the weight class.

Prior to the loss, Pereira had been on a dominant run as the defending champion, winning three times in 2024 with knockouts over Jamahal Hill, Jiri Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree Jr.

Despite the drama and his loss to Ankalaev, Pereira remains one of the UFC’s most marketable stars. 

UFC President Dana White has yet to comment publicly on the situation. Pereira, in the meantime, is focusing on securing another fight with Ankalaev. UFC fans are looking forward to a rematch that could headline a major event later this year.

Related: Alex Pereira Gets Into Heated Exchange With Ex After Painful Loss

Related: Alex Pereira Hits Magomed Ankalaev With Wild Accusation Before UFC 313