LAS VEGAS – Alexandre Pantoja successfully defended his flyweight championship by defeating newcomer Kai Asakura in the second round of the UFC 310 main event showdown in front of 18,648 fans at T-Mobile Arena.

Pantoja neutralized the former RIZIN bantamweight champion’s explosive punch by taking the fight to the canvas in the second round, where the Brazilian’s extraordinary confrontation quickly ended Asakura’s bid to become the first Japanese UFC champion.

Asakura signed with the UFC in June and was immediately promoted to the flyweight title fight, providing a fresh new opponent for Pantoja. But the Brazilian put in a masterful performance that cemented his place as the best flyweight in the world today.

“That’s the level, UFC level that is here – so high. Do you think some Japanese (fighter) will come here and take my belt? No,” said Pantoja. “When the Octagon is locked, that’s my city, that’s my city.”

After stopping Asakura’s explosive punch in the opening round, Pantoja opened the second round by pushing his opponent into the fence. During a scuffle, Pantoja immediately took Asakura’s back, dragged the fight to the canvas and began fishing for a rear-naked choke. Asakura was quickly overwhelmed and succumbed to Pantoja’s grasp – instead of knocking out, he was put to sleep after 2:05 minutes.

Pantoja (29-5) extended his win streak to seven and successfully defended his flyweight title, which he won in 2023 by defeating Brandon Moreno, for the third time.

Although he is now second all-time with four flyweight title fights, he remains far behind the recently retired Demetrious Johnson’s 12 wins. But Pantoja continues to strive for greatness and presents “Mighty Mouse” with a challenge.

“He’s not fighting anymore, he retired this year,” Pantoja said of Johnson. “But this is for you, Demetrious Johnson. I’m the GOAT here. If you want to prove you’re the GOAT, come back.”

Pantoja may not get his wish with Johnson, but there are several options for his next title defense: Kai Kara-France, Amir Albazi and Brandon Royval are waiting in the starting blocks.

With another level under her belt, Pantoja is building a legacy of her own.