Demetrious Johnson not keen on pulling ‘Jose Aldo’ in response to Alexandre Pantoja’s callout
Former UFC champion Demetrious Johnson has declined UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja's callout for a fight to settle the GOAT debate.
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Demetrious Johnson states his reasons for declining a potential fight against Alexandre Pantoja (Image via Imago/UFC)
The UFC flyweight division has consistently showcased some of the best MMA fighters in the world. Currently, Alexandre Pantoja holds the title of UFC flyweight champion. Recently, Pantoja called out one of the legends of the division, Demetrious Johnson. In response, Johnson didn’t take much time and shared his thoughts on the callout.
Alexandre Pantoja headlined UFC 310 against Kai Asakura last weekend. After significant hype surrounding the matchup, Pantoja defeated the Japanese superstar with relative ease. Following this impressive victory, the Brazilian fighter called out Demetrious Johnson for a fight, expressing his desire to settle the ‘GOAT’ debate. A few hours later, Johnson responded to decline Pantoja’s challenge.
I’m not the best flyweight in the world anymore. My black a** retired and I’m happily retired. I ain’t going to be no motherf**king Jose Aldo. I ain’t going to be no motherf**king Donald Cerrone coming back to fight. There ain’t no point to coming back to fight…
Demetrious Johnson on his YouTube channel
DJ explained his reasons for declining Pantoja’s callout. Johnson retired from professional MMA a few months ago. Throughout his illustrious MMA career, DJ accumulated several accolades and achieved an impressive record, defeating many top fighters. However, as he has gotten older, Johnson is less motivated about the sport and has clearly stated that he is happily retired.
?Demetrious Johnson explains why he’ll never fight again:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 8, 2024
“I’m not the best flyweight in the world anymore… I’m happily retired, and I’m not going to be like Jose Aldo or Donald Cerrone, coming back to fighting.”
? YT @MightyMouse ▫️ pic.twitter.com/zyOjo2z6V7
Johnson mentioned that he does not want to follow in the footsteps of several other UFC superstars who have come out of retirement to compete again. DJ specifically cited Jose Aldo and Donald Cerrone. Like Johnson, Aldo was a legend in the sport, having announced his retirement in 2022.
However, the Brazilian legend returned and is now actively competing in the UFC. Johnson is determined not to make the same choice and to avoid competing against Pantoja after coming out of retirement. Meanwhile, ‘The Cannibal’ has shared his reasons for wanting to face Johnson in the octagon.
Alexandre Pantoja explains his reasons for calling out Demetrious Johnson
Demetrious Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest UFC fighters in history. He made history by becoming the first UFC flyweight champion, a title he held for over six years, from 2012 to 2018. During this time, Johnson undeniably established a lasting legacy within the promotion, earning him the label “The GOAT.” Interestingly, Alexandre Pantoja is looking to challenge Johnson’s esteemed status.
Pantoja is currently one of the standout fighters in the UFC. As the reigning flyweight champion, the Brazilian fighter has dominated several top contenders in his division. With unwavering confidence, Pantoja believes that defeating Johnson could solidify his status as the GOAT in the division. Although DJ has declined the matchup, Pantoja shares his reasons for wanting the fight.
Demetrious, it’s not about the money brother, we don’t talk about millions (of dollars) here. We’re talking about fighting the best in the world.
Alexandre Pantoja via UFC 310 post-fight press conference
Interestingly, in relation to the fighters, Johnson has always questioned Pantoja’s fighting style, finding it unimpressive. In fact, there was an instance where Johnson urged UFC CEO Dana White not to allow flyweight fighters to headline pay-per-view events. Despite Johnson’s request, Pantoja headlined the UFC 310 and performed exceptionally well against Kai Asakura.
Related: Alexandre Pantoja Net Worth, UFC contract, Endorsements and House
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Nilaav Gogoi
(526 Articles Published)