Organizers clear Pereira after UK seminar backlash over missing meet-and-greet

Event organizer Joyagear has publicly cleared UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira of any wrongdoing following criticism that emerged from his seminar stop in Keighley, England, during his United Kingdom tour.

Pereira (13-3) faced online backlash after attendees alleged he refused photographs during a paid meet-and-greet session. In a statement issued via Instagram, Joyagear said the fault lay entirely with their own internal miscommunication, not with Pereira. According to the organizers, “Poatan” was briefed only on delivering a one-hour seminar — which he completed in full and on time — and was never told that autograph signings or individual photos had been advertised as part of the event.

“Alex Pereira was not at fault,” Joyagear stated plainly. “He acted based on the information provided to him by Joyagear.”

The organizers also addressed the local Keighley seminar organizer directly, noting that party had been fully informed of the agreed deliverables and the duration of Pereira’s appearance. Joyagear described it as “very unfortunate” that public statements had pointed blame at Pereira.

As a consequence of the breakdown, Joyagear confirmed that all meet-and-greet ticket holders are receiving full refunds, and seminar attendees who did not receive the advertised photo opportunity or autograph have also been refunded accordingly.

The company acknowledged the incident fell below their usual standards, citing a track record of successfully organizing athlete events, and pledged to review their internal communication processes. The remaining dates on Pereira’s UK tour are set to continue as planned.