“Merab Changes Everything” – UFC 323 Star Alexandre Pantoja Reveals Condition for Double Champ Dreams

UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja reveals why he does not want to move up in weight if Merab Dvalishvili is the bantamweight champion.

“Merab Changes Everything” – UFC 323 Star Alexandre Pantoja Reveals Condition for Double Champ Dreams

Alexandre Pantoja does not want to fight Merab Dvalishvili (via Athlon Sports, MMA Fighting)

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The flyweight landscape continues to evolve as athletes weigh future options and assess challenges in neighboring divisions. Alexandre Pantoja, established at the top of the 125-pound class, remains central to discussions about potential movement across weight categories. He recently spoke about how Merab Dvalishvili‘s presence as bantamweight champion influences his decision to move up in weight.

Pantoja stands as one of the most dominant flyweights of the modern era, securing one-sided victories over Brandon Royval, Kai Asakura, and Kai Kara-France. His ability to neutralize top contenders has reinforced his reputation as a commanding champion. Many observers do not identify any current flyweight capable of giving him an evenly matched contest, which has made him the division’s benchmark.

He is set to make his fourth title defense against Joshua Van at UFC 323, while Dvalishvili headlines the event against Petr Yan for his fourth defense of 2025. Talks have emerged about a potential champion-versus-champion meeting between the two. These discussions set the backdrop for Pantoja’s latest comments, which are shaped by the current competitive structure.

Ten pounds for me is much more than other guys. If O’Malley got the belt, then I would say I’m ready to go, but with Merab it’s different. Maybe if he comes down to flyweight, it’s gonna be easy for me.

Alexandre Pantoja via TMZ Sports

Pantoja stated that a move to bantamweight would have been more favorable when Sean O’Malley held the title, viewing him as an easier matchup. Their history includes a rivalry sparked when ‘Suga’ shared training footage claiming Pantoja had quit during sparring. This incident heightened tension between them and influenced how ‘The Cannibal’ compares the challenges at 135 pounds.

Dvalishvili, however, has built a dominant bantamweight legacy with his Georgian wrestling and relentless cardio. His victories over Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov strengthened his reputation as a near-unmatched champion. Few contenders appear capable of disrupting his pace-driven approach. This reality shapes how incoming challengers, such as Pantoja, evaluate the division.

Alexandre Pantoja has often faced criticism for not generating substantial pay-per-view numbers or mainstream visibility despite his success. A potential clash and victory over a recognized champion like Merab Dvalishvili could significantly alter that perception. Such a win would elevate his profile within the sport. It could also broaden his legacy beyond the flyweight division.

Alexandre Pantoja vows to give teammate a title shot after UFC 323

Gym culture inside top MMA camps often creates unexpected title-fight scenarios when teammates rise to championship level. Alexandre Pantoja and Kyoji Horiguchi, longtime training partners at American Top Team, now find themselves in that position. Their shared history adds a unique dimension to any future matchup. It places sporting ambition and professional respect on the same stage.

Alexandre Pantoja wants to give Kyoji Horiguchi a title shot
Alexandre Pantoja wants to give Kyoji Horiguchi a title shot (via Reddit, MMA Mania)

Horiguchi recently returned to the UFC after leaving the promotion in 2016 to compete in Bellator and RIZIN. His comeback was marked by a decisive win over Tagir Ulanbekov at UFC Qatar, where he secured a third-round finish. That victory prompted him to call out Pantoja for a title shot. His challenge led directly to Pantoja’s reaction to the situation.

He’s pushed my level up. I have this belt right now because I have Kyoji Horguchi in the same room to train together. Amazing fighter, amazing teammate. If we fight for the UFC belt, it’s going to be a privilege. I think it’s going to be a present – not just for me, for Kyoji, but for American Top Team. You have two guys from the same gym conquering this position together, to fight for the world title for UFC. Yeah, it’s going to be a privilege.

Alexandre Pantoja via TMZ Sports

Pantoja expressed amusement and appreciation, noting that his family laughed at the unexpected callout but also acknowledged the privilege of such a matchup. He credited Horiguchi as a key figure in his development and welcomed the idea if circumstances allow. With Alexandre Pantoja scheduled to defend his belt next at UFC 323, a future meeting remains possible.

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