The upcoming UFC flyweight title fight between champion Alexandre Pantoja and challenger Kai Asakura is generating significant interest in the MMA world. This bout is scheduled to take place at UFC 310 on December 7, 2024, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura
The odds have shifted slightly since they were first released. Initially, Alexandre Pantoja opened as a -210 favorite, with Asakura as a +180 underdog. The current odds show a slight movement in Asakura’s favor, suggesting that some bettors see value in the challenger or believe he has a better chance than initially thought. Play the odds with online pokies right here.
It’s worth noting that while Alexandre Pantoja is favored, the odds aren’t overwhelmingly in his favor. This could be due to Asakura’s impressive record and finishing ability. The current odds for the UFC flyweight title fight between Alexandre Pantoja and Kai Asakura reflect Pantoja’s status as the favorite to retain his championship. Pantoja is listed at 4/9 odds, while Asakura is the underdog at 7/4.
Brazil’s Alexandre Pantoja is the reigning UFC flyweight champion and has successfully defended his title twice already. He has an impressive record of 28 wins and only 5 losses, with a strong track record in the UFC. Pantoja’s experience in five-round championship fights and his familiarity with the UFC’s competition level give him a significant advantage.
He’s known for his well-rounded skillset, combining excellent Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with effective striking. Pantoja has been on a remarkable run in the UFC with wins over fighters such as Steve Erceg, Steve Erceg, Manel Kape, and Brandon Moreno.
Kai Asakura, while a talented fighter with a 21-4 record, is making his UFC debut in this title fight. He’s moving up from the Japanese promotion Rizin, where he was a bantamweight champion. However, transitioning to the UFC and dropping down to flyweight for the first time in years presents challenges that likely contribute to his underdog status.
The Japanese striker is known for his aggressive, finish-focused style, with 13 of his 21 wins coming by knockout. he trained in Karate when he was younger but would cut his teeth in street fights alongside his brother where the two were prepared to die. Eventually, he would go into boxing and transitioned to professional MMA. Most recently, he is coming off of a knockout win against Bellator champion Juan Archuleta.
Pantoja’s grappling ability and well-rounded game will be pitted against Asakura’s explosive striking and knockout power. While Pantoja has the advantage of UFC experience and a proven track record against top-tier competition, Asakura brings knockout power in his hands.
This fight is particularly significant as it represents a fresh challenge in the flyweight division. Pantoja has already defeated several top contenders, and Asakura’s entry into the UFC brings new blood to the weight class. It’s also a historic opportunity for Asakura, as a win would make him the first Japanese fighter to hold a UFC title since Kazushi Sakuraba captured a tournament crown in 1997.
This matchup promises to be an exciting clash between an established UFC champion and a dangerous newcomer.