# Michel Pereira UFC release controversy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/michel-pereira-ufc-release-controversy
> Updated: 2026-07-29T16:07:08.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 2.

In July 2026, Brazilian fighter Michel Pereira was cut from the UFC after a unanimous‑decision loss to Sharabutdin Magomedov at UFC Baku. The bout was marred by repeated fouls, including hair‑pulling and an eye poke, for which referee Herb Dean issued warnings but did not deduct points, leaving the 29‑28 score in Magomedov’s favor. Pereira’s release sparked criticism from fellow Brazilian fighters and reignited debate over referee accountability.

Two weeks later, Pereira announced he would appeal the decision, arguing that a point deduction for the fouls would have resulted in a draw and could have altered his standing with the promotion. He is consulting a lawyer and seeking a no‑contest or draw ruling from the athletic commission overseeing the event, while still expressing gratitude toward the UFC despite the controversy.

## Timeline

### 2026-07-29: Michel Pereira Appeals Controversial UFC Baku Decision

Michel Pereira is appealing his UFC Baku loss to Sharabutdin Magomedov, citing hair‑pulling and an eye poke that went undisciplined, which he claims cost him a draw and led to his release.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/michel-pereira-appeals-controversial-ufc-baku-decision

### 2026-07-15: Michel Pereira released from UFC after controversial loss in Baku

Michel Pereira was released from the UFC after a controversial loss to Shara Magomedov in Baku, prompting criticism from Alex Pereira over referee Herb Dean’s handling of fouls.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ufc-releases-brazilian-fighter-michel-pereira-after-loss-to-shara-magomedov

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Cite as: Michel Pereira UFC release controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/michel-pereira-ufc-release-controversy