On December 7, 2024, at UFC 310 in the legendary T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada, the main event will feature Alexandre “The Cannibal” Pantoja defending his title against Japan’s star Kai Asakura. This highly anticipated Flyweight bout highlights the clash of Pantoja’s well-rounded game against Asakura’s striking power, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. Early predictions and betting insights point to a strategic chess match between two elite competitors.
Betting Odds
Pantoja enters as the clear favorite due to his well-rounded skill set, including dangerous submissions and improved striking. Asakura, while an underdog, possesses explosive knockout power, making him a live threat in any striking exchanges.
Fighter Profiles and Analysis
| Age: 34 | Leg Reach: 36.5″ |
| Height: 5’5″ | Fighting Style: Striker/BJJ Grappler |
| Weight: 125 lbs | Stance: Orthodox |
| Reach: 67″ | Record: 28-5-0 (8 KOs, 10 Submissions, 10 Decisions) |
Notable Strengths
Highly skilled grappler with exceptional submission ability, proven cardio for five rounds, and an improved striking game. His experience in high-pressure title fights gives him a mental edge.
Weaknesses
Historically struggled against high-level strikers with strong defensive grappling.
| Age: 31 | Leg Reach: N/A |
| Height: 5’8″ | Fighting Style: Striker |
| Weight: 125 lbs | Stance: N/A |
| Reach: N/A | Record: 21-4-0 (13 KOs, 3 Submissions, 5 Decisions) |
Notable Strengths
Dynamic and powerful striker with a high finishing rate. His speed and precision allow him to capitalize on small openings.
Weaknesses
Grappling defense remains untested at the elite level, potentially exposing him to Pantoja’s submission game.
Recent Fight History and Form
| Alexandre Pantoja | Kai Asakura | |
| 🟩 Win Opponent: Steve Erceg Method: Decision, Round 5 (5:00) | Last Fight | 🟩 Win Opponent: Juan Archuleta Method: TKO, Round 2 (3:20) |
| 🟩 Win Opponent: Brandon Royval Method: Decision, Round 5 (5:00) | 2nd Last Fight | 🟩 Win Opponent: Yuki Motoya Method: KO, Round 3 (4:31) |
| 🟩 Win Opponent: Brandon Moreno Method: Decision, Round 5 (5:00) | 3rd Last Fight | 🟥 Loss Opponent: Hiromasa Ogikubo Method: Decision, Round 3 (5:00) |
| 🟩 Win Opponent: Alex Perez Method: Submission, Round 1 (1:31) | 4th Last Fight | 🟩 Win Opponent: Kenta Takizawa Method: Decision, Round 3 (5:00) |
| 🟩 Win Opponent: Brandon Royval Method: Submission, Round 2 (1:46) | 5th Last Fight | 🟩 Win Opponent: Alan Yoshihiro Yamaniha Method: Decision, Round 3 (5:00) |
Pantoja has faced tougher competition recently, showcasing his ability to grind out victories in five-round wars. Asakura’s recent victories display his explosive power, but his competition level hasn’t matched the depth of Pantoja’s.
Expected Strategy
Prediction and Picks
Prediction: Alexandre Pantoja Wins by Submission (Round 3)
Alexandre Pantoja’s well-rounded skill set and extensive experience against elite competition give him a significant edge in this matchup. His ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling makes him a constant threat in all phases of the fight. While Kai Asakura’s striking is undeniably dangerous, his lack of proven grappling defense against high-level opponents could be a critical vulnerability.
Pantoja’s aggressive grappling style, highlighted by his ability to finish fights on the ground, will likely come into play as he looks to nullify Asakura’s striking range. Pantoja’s experience in five-round wars and his composure under pressure further solidify his advantage. Expect him to push the pace in the early rounds, wear down Asakura, and capitalize on any defensive lapses to secure a submission by Round 3.
Recommended Picks
This fight is a classic striker-versus-grappler matchup. While Asakura’s knockout power is formidable, Pantoja’s grappling and championship experience should prove to be the deciding factors. Look for Pantoja to weather any early striking exchanges, secure a takedown, and dominate on the ground to maintain his title.
