Alexandre Pantoja has been considered to be one of the most under appreciated champions on the UFC roster but in the final title fight of 2024, it was his time to shine.
In the main event of UFC 310, the Brazilian champion produced what might be a career-best performance to submit the newcomer Kai Asakura in the second round.
The Japanese superstar was brought in from RIZIN to freshen up the division but ultimately, like the other top contenders, he was unable to take the gold from "The Cannibal".
In his post-fight interview, Pantoja reminded the fans that when it comes to the best at 125-pounds, he's in a league of his own right now:
"This is the level, UFC level that's here, so high. Thinking some Japanese come in here and take my belt, no. I'm ready to go to Japan and defend and do whatever they want but awesome kid, very tough warrior. Everybody see the highlights, crazy highlights but it doesn't matter. When the Octagon's locked, this is my town, this is my city, I feel freedom when I fight in here."
Pantoja went on to thank his teammates and coaches at American Top Team whilst reminding his supporters of all the hard work he has put in over the years to reach the pinnacle of MMA.
His closing statement at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas saw him call out the greatest champion in the history of the flyweight division.
Though Demetrious Johnson has no plans on returning after he retired in September, it shows that Pantoja isn't just satisfied with being the best flyweight in the world, he wants to be the best of all time.
"This is fight, this is special for some retire fight, he don't fight anymore, he retire this year but this is a message for you Demetrious Johnson. I'm the GOAT here. If you want to prove you're the GOAT, come back."
Watch the full interview below:
