If he wasn’t already the most popular man on the UFC roster, Alex Pereira has found a way to further his stake to the claim. As everybody shared their plans with their families and friends on New Year’s Eve as we prepared for 2026, Pereira was busy announcing his new relationship to the world.
‘Poatan’ is renowned for being reserved and often isn’t spotted saying too much when the camera is on him. Even with his laid-back approach, the Brazilian has managed to become one of the most beloved fighters in the world, frequently finding himself in the headlines.
No new fight on the horizon, no problem for Alex Pereira and his ability to stay in the public eye. As Christmas passed and the clocks ticked down for the new year, Pereira announced that he and fellow UFC star Tracy Cortez were in a relationship.
🎉❤️ Alex Pereira and Tracy Cortez celebrating New Year together.Both posted these pictures on IG stories. pic.twitter.com/ShSpa8AR7Z
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) January 1, 2026
The announcement came as a complete surprise, having kept their relationship a secret for the duration of time that they’ve been dating. And now, fans can’t get enough of MMA’s newest couple.
Last time out, Alex Pereira recaptured his light heavyweight throne. The 38-year-old made quick work of Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320, knocking him out less than a minute and a half into the first round.
Related: UFC insider believes Alex Pereira could end the Greatest of All Time debate
Pereira now has several things to look forward to. Defending his title during his second reign as champion, a potential move up in weight to compete at heavyweight, and marriage?!
As their new budding romance continues to grow stronger, Tracy Cortez shared a video of her asking the age-old question to Alex Pereira.
“Baby, are you going to marry me?” Cortez asked. “Alex?”
Waking up to answer Cortez’s question, Pereira responded in a way he had become accustomed to.
“Chama,” Pereira replied, raising a smile from his new girlfriend, Cortez.
😅💍Tracy Cortez asks Alex Pereira if he’ll marry herAlex’s answer: “ Chama.”🗿(via @TracyCortezmma) pic.twitter.com/5drI5iLzKo
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) January 5, 2026
