Alex Pereira (Image Source: Getty)Former UFC two-division champion Alex Pereira has shared an emotional message after being named the recipient of the UFC’s 2026 Forrest Griffin Community Award. The Brazilian star thanked the promotion and everyone who has supported him, saying the recognition means a lot because it reflects the values he has followed throughout his life.The award recognizes UFC athletes who make a positive impact outside the Octagon through charity and community work. Pereira earned the honor for his efforts through Instituto Poatan, a non-profit organization that supports hundreds of young people in Brazil. Along with the award, the UFC Foundation will donate $25,000 to a charity selected by Pereira.Alex Pereira thanks UFC and supporters after receiving prestigious community honorAfter the announcement, Alex Pereira posted a heartfelt message on social media expressing his appreciation for the recognition. He said receiving the Forrest Griffin Community Award was one of the proudest moments of his career because it celebrates athletes who use their platform to help others.The Brazilian explained that many respected UFC fighters have received the award before him, and joining that list is something he values deeply. He said he has always believed in giving back to communities through charity and martial arts, and this recognition shows that those efforts have made a difference.Pereira also thanked the UFC for acknowledging his work outside competition. He added that the award is not only his achievement but also belongs to the people who have supported him throughout his journey. According to Pereira, every coach, teammate, friend, volunteer, and supporter played a role in helping him reach this milestone, and he shares the honor with all of them.UFC CEO Dana White also praised Pereira’s commitment to helping others. Much of that work is carried out through Instituto Poatan, which the Brazilian founded in 2024. The organization provides free after-school tutoring, computer education, and jiu-jitsu training to more than 500 children and teenagers in Brazil. The program aims to give young people opportunities to learn new skills while staying active through martial arts.As part of the Forrest Griffin Community Award, the UFC Foundation will contribute $25,000 to a charity chosen by Pereira. He now joins a respected group of previous winners that includes Dustin Poirier, Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira, and Beneil Dariush, all of whom have been recognized for their charitable work beyond fighting.Meanwhile, Pereira is preparing for the next chapter of his fighting career. He recently fell short in his attempt to become the UFC’s first three-division champion after losing to Ciryl Gane in the interim heavyweight title fight at the UFC White House event in June. Despite the UFC Freedom 250 setback, Pereira has indicated that he plans to continue competing in the heavyweight division as he looks to earn another opportunity to fight for the UFC belt.