Alexandre Pantoja successfully defends flyweight belt with technical submission of Kai Asakura
Alexandre Pantoja successfully defended his flyweight title Saturday night with a technical submission of Kai Asakura, using a rear naked choke to put his challenger to sleep at the 2:05 mark of the second round
By W.G. RAMIREZ
Published - Dec 08, 2024, 02:55 AM ET
Last Updated - Dec 16, 2024, 05:03 PM EST
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Alexandre Pantoja staked his claim as one of the greatest flyweights in UFC history when he defended his title Saturday night with a technical submission of Japan's Kai Asakura, using a rear naked choke to put his challenger to sleep at the 2:05 mark of the second round.
Pantoja (29-5) was making his third title defense since winning a split decision over Brandon Moreno at UFC 290 on July 8, 2023.
Asakura (21-5) was making his UFC debut, but was no match for Pantoja, who closed a -275 favorite at BetMGM Sportsbook.
”This is the UFC level, so high,” said Pantoja, 34, who has won his last seven bouts, including three via rear naked choke. ”You think some Japanese (fighter) going to come here and take my belt? No!
