- George Chung
- Oct 16, 2024
- 2 min read
The UFC world was set abuzz with the recent announcement that Japanese star Kai Asakura will challenge reigning Flyweight Champion Alexandre Pantoja in his promotional debut at UFC 310: Muhammad vs. Rakhmonov on December 7, 2024.
Known for his explosive style, Asakura boasts a 21-4 professional record, including an impressive 16 finishes. A two-time RIZIN bantamweight champion, he is expected to bring a fresh challenge to Pantoja in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown.
Asakura’s Meteoric Rise
Asakura’s journey to the UFC has been nothing short of remarkable. At 30 years old, he’s already cemented his legacy in RIZIN with notable wins, including a knockout victory over the UFC’s No. 9-ranked flyweight contender, Manel Kape, and former UFC flyweight title challenger Kyoji Horiguchi. Asakura’s latest triumph saw him reclaim the RIZIN bantamweight title by finishing former Bellator champ Juan Archuleta in the second round at RIZIN 45 last December. He subsequently vacated his title on June 8 to sign with the UFC, marking a new chapter in his storied career.
The Champion Awaits: Alexandre Pantoja
Standing in Asakura’s way is UFC Flyweight Champion Alexandre Pantoja, a powerhouse in the division. Pantoja captured the belt from Brandon Moreno at UFC 290 and has since defended it twice, securing decisive wins over top contenders Brandon Royval and Steve Erceg. With a six-fight win streak, the Brazilian champion is hungry to extend his reign, sitting just one win away from tying Demetrious Johnson and Joseph Benavidez’s record for most victories in UFC flyweight history.
Pantoja’s well-rounded skill set, which includes submission wins over Royval and Alex Perez, makes him a dangerous opponent for any newcomer, even one as seasoned as Asakura. This battle promises to test both fighters as they look to cement their legacies on one of the year’s most anticipated fight cards.
Stacked Card for UFC 310
UFC 310, taking place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is shaping up to be a blockbuster event. Here’s what fans can expect:
Main Event: Belal Muhammad vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov
Kai Asakura vs. Alexandre Pantoja for the UFC Flyweight Championship
Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov
Vicente Luque vs. Nick Diaz
Movsar Evloev vs. Aljamain Sterling
Anthony Smith vs. Dominick Reyes
The prelims begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, with the main card live on Pay-Per-View at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. This card is packed with thrilling matchups and is expected to draw a massive global audience as fight fans gear up for a night of nonstop action.
Don’t miss the electrifying debut of Kai Asakura as he faces off against Alexandre Pantoja for the flyweight gold at UFC 310! This is a fight you won’t want to miss.
