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Alex Pereira Publicly Explains Breakup With Tracy Cortez

2026-06-30 · Alex Pereira · Player Focus

Alex Pereira publicly explained his breakup with UFC flyweight Tracy Cortez ahead of her July 11 return at UFC 329, saying the pair mutually decided to go their separate ways. The interview, conducted by ALF Global, gave fans their first clear insight into a relationship that had been hinted at but never detailed.

Pereira told the reporter, "We mutually agreed to go our separate ways. I didn’t agree with some things. Maybe she’s not ready for a serious relationship. I decided to leave, and that’s alright. I wish her all the best." The candid admission points to differing expectations rather than a dramatic fallout. Both athletes have demanding schedules, and the comment about readiness suggests personal priorities outweighed the romance.

The timing coincides with Pereira’s recent loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250, a controversial TKO that left him upset over referee Herb Dean’s handling of illegal head shots. Despite the defeat, Pereira remains ranked No. 4 in the heavyweight division and is still a marquee name for the promotion. The split may allow him to refocus on his comeback, potentially targeting rising contender Josh Hokit later this year.

Since the breakup, Pereira has been linked to Brazilian television presenter Livia Andrade, a relationship that has already attracted media attention. Cortez, meanwhile, is set to fight Wang Cong on the UFC 329 undercard, where she enters as the No. 8 women’s flyweight contender in the Meta UFC Rankings. Her performance will be closely watched, especially after a recent two‑loss streak.

Both fighters retain strong fan bases. Pereira’s candidness adds a human element that can boost his appeal, while Cortez’s upcoming bout offers a platform to demonstrate resilience. Their separate paths keep the spotlight on each athlete, ensuring that personal drama does not eclipse professional achievements.

Pereira’s mandatory medical suspension after the Gane fight means he won’t be back in the Octagon until later in the year, giving him time to settle personal matters. Cortez’s fight on July 11 will be her first major test since the split, and any post‑fight comments could hint at lingering feelings or a clean break.

So far, Cortez has remained silent on social media regarding the breakup. As UFC 329 approaches, reporters expect she might address the topic in the press conference or interview circuit. Pereira, having already spoken, may stay out of the limelight, focusing on training and his upcoming heavyweight clash.

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