Alexandre Pantoja gets called out by former two division champion: "Make him bend the knee"
It appears as though Alexandre Pantoja has gained more respect among his peers as a former two division champion recently called him out for a flyweight title fight. The Brazilian continues to cement his impressive legacy at 125 pounds, especially considering he has already defeated several top-ranked contenders prior to becoming champion.
'The Cannibal' most recently submitted former Rizin bantamweight champion Kai Asakura at UFC 310 last Saturday to earn his third successful title defense. He then called out consensus flyweight GOAT Demetrious Johnson to come out of retirement and test his skills.
Pantoja has since discussed who he can defend his title against next and named the likes of Kai Kara-France and former UFC competitor Muhammad Mokaev as appealing options.
Henry Cejudo recently threw his name in the mix during the latest episode of his Pound 4 Pound podcast. Cejudo doubled down on his challenge by mentioning that he'd even be willing to fight him in Brazil:
"If Pantoja wants to do this fight, I can shake on it...It's up to Hunter [Campbell], man... I've asked him about going down to 125-pounds...if they believe me and trust in me and we're able to go to the UFC PI, and if Pantoja wants to do it, if he wants to do it in Brazil, I would love to make him bend the knee. And I love the dude and he's the kindest soul and I'm glad he's champion but for that championship belt, Pantoja, you will bend the knee to king 'Triple C'."
Check out Henry Cejudo's comments about Alexandre Pantoja below:
Alexandre Pantoja discussed potential fight against Henry Cejudo prior to UFC 310
Henry Cejudo and Alexandre Pantoja are no strangers to each other and have a well-documented history. The former two division champion served as Pantoja's coach on 'The Ultimate Fighter' in 2016.
While speaking to MMA Junkie ahead of UFC 310, 'The Cannibal' shared his thoughts on 'Triple C' possibly returning to flyweight to challenge him for his title. Pantoja mentioned that he would love to fight Cejudo but had his doubts about him successfully making weight:
"[Cejudo] needs [liposuction] to make the weight...I don't think he can make [125-pounds] again. He's too big. I'd love the opportunity. If Cejudo can do that, I'll give him five pounds to fight. It will be a dream to fight with Cejudo, of course, he's a legend." [14:00]
Check out the full interview with Alexandre Pantoja below: