Kai Asakura reacts to age concerns about Alexandre Pantoja, says UFC flyweight division needs "a new king in town"
Kai Asakura is all set to make his UFC debut against Alexandre Pantoja in the main event at UFC 310, on December 7, 2024. The Japanese mixed martial artist has his sights set on the strap, which Pantoja is risking for the third time.
Combat sports fans were reassured by Asakura during the media day interview that his fighting style is unique to the UFC. Additionally, he promised to add excitement to the flyweight class. In response to a question concerning his opinion of his opponent and his age, he stated:
"I don’t have any feeling that Pantoja is too old. I think actually he is probably at the peak of his performance. He is an excellent all-round fighter… but for me... forward in the future, there needs to be a change and there needs to be a new king in town… that’s why I’m here. To take over the flyweight division."
Watch Kai Asakura's entire media day interview below:
'The Cannibal' is 34 and has already defended his title twice. Asakura, on the other hand, will be making his UFC debut this weekend. He is 31 and has an MMA record of 21 wins and 4 losses. Asakura signed a deal with the UFC in June 2024 and vacated the Rizin bantamweight title.
Whether the Japanese debutant can dethrone the current UFC flyweight champion at UFC 310 will be an exciting watch.
Alexandre Pantoja describes his bout with Kai Asakura as the "perfect challenge"
When questioned about his impending showdown with Kai Asakura, Alexandre Pantoja described it as a "perfect challenge" and commended the UFC for bringing the match to fruition. He said during a media day interview:
“I respect all the promotions but everybody knows about how big UFC is and if you want to show all the world that you are the best, you need the UFC belt. When they bring the name Asakura, for me, I think it’s a perfect challenge."
"I’m super excited for that fight. It’s a very exciting fight. It’s someone I never figured out I had the chance to fight. That’s what I want. I want to fight with the best fighters in the world. The UFC just gave me that opportunity.” [h/t MMA Junkie]
Even though his Japanese opponent is a very skilled striker, 'The Cannibal' stated that the UFC is different and stressed that he can use his grappling at UFC 310, since he thinks he has the greatest ground game in the division. Additionally, he also promised his supporters that he would prevail in Saturday's bout.
Watch Alexandre Pantoja's entire media day interview below and hear his views about his upcoming bout with Kai Asakura: