WATCH: Alex Pereira Training With Tracy Cortez After Major New Year Reveal Goes Viral

UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira trains with Tracy Cortez after their New Year's Eve relationship reveal.

WATCH: Alex Pereira Training With Tracy Cortez After Major New Year Reveal Goes Viral

Alex Pereira training with Tracy Cortez (via Instagram)

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UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira’s training sessions have always been highly visible, drawing attention for their intensity and focus. He consistently pressures sparring partners with his exceptional reach and striking power, setting a demanding pace. Recently, Pereira was seen training with UFC women’s flyweight contender Tracy Cortez following their New Year’s dating reveal.

The entire MMA community was caught by surprise after Pereira posted a photo with Cortez on New Year’s Eve, generating widespread attention. The pairing was later confirmed when Cortez shared a photo of them kissing on her Instagram story. Their public acknowledgment marked one of the more high-profile relationships in MMA outside of competition.

Pereira conducts his training at Teixeira MMA & Fitness in Bethel, Connecticut, a gym owned by UFC legend and his coach, Glover Teixeira. The facility has become a central hub for elite-level preparation, combining striking, grappling, and conditioning. Recently, Pereira posted a video on his Instagram story showing him training Cortez to execute different types of kicks and footwork.

The year 2025 began on a challenging note for Pereira, who lost his light heavyweight title to Magomed Ankalaev by unanimous decision at UFC 313. He later avenged the defeat by knocking out Ankalaev in their rematch, reclaiming the 205-pound championship to become a two-time titleholder. The public revelation of his relationship with Cortez added a personal highlight, ending the year on a positive note.

‘Poatan’ has never shied away from sharing his dating life, sometimes drawing public controversy and media attention. He was involved in a dispute with his ex-girlfriend, Merle Christine, after he revealed that she was already married. Christine later posted a video celebrating Pereira’s loss to Ankalaev at UFC 313. Despite these past incidents, ‘Poatan’ has remained focused on his personal life and professional growth.

Cortez recently suffered a submission loss to Erin Blanchfield at UFC 322, requiring her to improve her skill set. Training with Alex Pereira offers her a chance to sharpen stand-up skills, footwork, and tactical movement. Cross-divisional sessions like this can accelerate development. These experiences may prove pivotal as Tracy Cortez aims to contend for the UFC women’s flyweight title in the potential future.

Tracy Cortez trains with the Pitbull brothers for her return to the win column

Tracy Cortez is one of the most popular fighters in the UFC women’s division, known for her grappling and disciplined approach. She aimed to continue her winning momentum at UFC 322 following a unanimous decision victory over Viviane Araujo at UFC 317 earlier in 2025. However, Erin Blanchfield’s technical prowess proved too much, resulting in a rear-naked choke loss in the second round.

Tracy Cortez
Tracy Cortez (via MMA Mania)

Recently, Cortez posted a video of herself training with former Bellator champions Patricky Pitbull and Patricio Pitbull at their gym. The session focused on groundwork, submission defense, and positional awareness. Cortez later emphasized her appreciation for the high-level coaching and individualized attention during the drills.

Merry Christmas. Spending this year’s holidays far from home.. I’ve been so focused on training, bettering my craft, evolving, growing in every way possible! Grateful is an understatement, never have I not felt like home when I come visit @pitbullbrothers.  last night I had my first Brazilian Christmas. Thank you for always welcoming me with open arms, for helping me year after year! 2026 is the year! Morning Christmas training.

Tracy Cortez via Instagram

Other popular UFC stars, such as Paddy Pimblett and Mackenzie Dern, have demonstrated that fan appeal can accelerate title opportunities. Cortez’s marketability, combined with high-level performances, could play a significant role in elevating her to title contender status. Consistent wins and visible engagement with the UFC fanbase may allow her to bypass some of the traditional ranking hurdles.

Against Blanchfield, Cortez revealed multiple holes in her game plan. She remained overly committed to regaining control, leaving her vulnerable to submission during a grappling exchange. Additionally, she became visibly fatigued under the extended pressure and pace her opponent applied. The bout highlighted the areas Tracy Cortez must address as she continues training to compete at the highest level.

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