Dana White alerted to settle ‘GOAT’ debate as Alexandre Pantoja makes ‘light work’ of Japanese star at UFC 310

UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja extends his win streak after defeating Kai Asakura by submission at UFC 310.

Dana White alerted to settle ‘GOAT’ debate as Alexandre Pantoja makes ‘light work’ of Japanese star at UFC 310

Alexandre Pantoja comfortably defeats Kai Asakura at UFC 310 (Image via UFC)

The most recent UFC fight card took place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. This event featured exciting matchups with UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja headlining the night against Japanese star Kai Asakura. Following this main event, Pantoja made a noteworthy request by calling out a ‘UFC GOAT’.

Former RIZIN bantamweight champion Kai Asakura entered the fight with significant hype to face Alexandre Pantoja. The Brazilian fighter has often faced intense scrutiny for delivering lackluster performances. However, his performance at UFC 310 surprised everyone, as Pantoja made quick work of the Japanese star. Following that, he even made an interesting call out.

He don’t fight anymore. He retired this year. But this is something for you Demetrious Johnson. I’m the GOAT here. If you want to prove you’re the GOAT, come back.

Alexandre Pantoja via UFC 310 octagon interview
YouTube video

The flyweight champion started the first round cautiously. However, as time went on, Pantoja grew more comfortable against Asakura. Consequently, at the 2:05 mark of the second round, the Japanese fighter passed out after Pantoja executed a precise rear naked choke.

FS Video

Interestingly, contrary to everyone’s expectations, Asakura was unable to perform at his best. However, apart from that, his callout to Demetrious Johnson made more noise.

Demetrious Johnson is regarded as one of the most successful flyweight fighters in MMA history. However, he has recently retired from competing in MMA. Despite Johnson’s retirement, Pantoja has expressed a desire to face him in the octagon, driven by the urge to prove himself superior to the UFC legend. Interestingly, Johnson did not take long to respond to the UFC flyweight champion’s callout.

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Amidst Alexandre Pantoja’s callout, Demetrious Johnson doesn’t want to fight anymore

Alexandre Pantoja is currently the most dominant fighters in the UFC flyweight division. The Brazilian fighter has achieved an impressive win streak in the promotion, including three consecutive title defense victories. Interestingly, this division was once ruled by UFC legend Demetrious Johnson, who was the first UFC flyweight champion.

Alexandre Pantoja submitting Kai Asakura
Alexandre Pantoja submitting Kai Asakura (Image via UFC)

Johnson had an impressive tenure as the flyweight champion, which lasted from 2012 to 2018. During those six years, he dominated all formidable competitors in the division, earning him the title of the GOAT in the eyes of many. Although Pantoja is eager to claim that title for himself through a fight, Johnson is not ready to give him that opportunity.

Guys I got offered 2 million dollars to fight!! I turned it down I don’t care to fight anymore YouTube video dropping soon

Demetrious Johnson via X (@MightyMouse)
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Interestingly, both Pantoja and Johnson do not get along very well. The UFC legend has called out the UFC flyweight champion for his lackluster reign. However, Pantoja’s recent performance may have silenced some critics. Although the Brazilian fighter aimed to further elevate his stature in the promotion, the matchup against DJ remains uncertain.

Related: Alexandre Pantoja Net Worth, UFC contract, Endorsements and House