In a highly anticipated UFC debut, Kai Asakura faced reigning flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 310, held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Asakura, a former two-time bantamweight champion in RIZIN, aimed to make history as the first Japanese fighter to claim a UFC title. However, Pantoja showcased his grappling prowess, submitting Asakura with a rear-naked choke in the second round.
#UFC310 Official Result: Alexandre Pantoja (@PantojaMMA) defeats Kai Asakura by Submission at 2:05 in Round 2.
Complete Main Card Results ➡️ https://t.co/HeUOBk8P64 pic.twitter.com/Mo2PpZ0ZUN
— UFC News (@UFCNews) December 8, 2024
The fight began with both fighters exchanging strikes, but Pantoja quickly took control, neutralizing Asakura’s striking with effective clinch work and takedowns. In the second round, Pantoja intensified his pressure, forcing Asakura against the cage. During a scramble, he capitalized on an opportunity to secure Asakura’s back and swiftly locked in the choke. The referee stepped in at 2:05 of Round 2, marking a definitive end to Asakura’s title challenge.
For Asakura, this loss serves as a tough initiation into the UFC’s competitive flyweight division. However, seeing as this was just his first fight in the UFC, there are many new fights that can assert himself back into the mix. Let’s take a look at some potential matchups for Kai Asakura’s next opponent.
Brandon Moreno vs. Kai Asakura would bring fireworks to the flyweight division
Following his recent loss to Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 310, Kai Asakura should set his sights on a matchup against former champion Brandon Moreno. Despite suffering a second-round submission defeat, Asakura’s dynamic striking and experience as a two-time RIZIN bantamweight champion demonstrate his potential to compete at the highest level in the UFC. A fight against Moreno would not only provide Asakura with an opportunity to rebound but also allow him to showcase his skills against a well-respected opponent in the flyweight division.
Moreno, who recently defeated Amir Albazi, is looking to re-establish himself as a title contender after losing the belt to Pantoja. A matchup between Asakura and Moreno would be compelling, as both fighters are known for their exciting styles and resilience in the octagon. This bout could serve as a pivotal moment for both athletes, with the winner positioning themselves closer to another title shot, making it a must-watch event for MMA fans and a significant step in Asakura’s UFC journey.
Amir Albazi is the right next fight between these two top-ranked flyweights
After suffering his first UFC loss against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 310, Kai Asakura should target a fight with Amir Albazi as his next step in the flyweight division. Despite the setback, Asakura’s dynamic striking and experience as a former RIZIN champion highlight his potential to bounce back. A matchup with Albazi, who recently lost to Brandon Moreno, presents an opportunity for both fighters to regain momentum and solidify their standings in the title picture.
Albazi, known for his grappling skills and resilience, would provide a challenging yet exciting bout for Asakura. This fight could serve as a pivotal moment for both athletes, allowing them to showcase their abilities and potentially set up a future title shot. With both fighters eager to prove themselves after recent defeats, this matchup promises to deliver an action-packed contest that could captivate fans and elevate the winner’s status in the competitive flyweight landscape.
Tatsuro Taira would pit two of the best Japanese flyweights against one another
In the wake of his first UFC loss to Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 310, Kai Asakura should consider a matchup against Tatsuro Taira as his next fight. Taira, a rising star in the flyweight division with a record of 16 wins and just one loss, recently faced Brandon Royval in a closely contested bout that ended in a split decision. This fight showcased Taira’s skill and determination, making him an ideal opponent for Asakura as both fighters look to rebound from recent setbacks.
A clash between Asakura and Taira would not only be an exciting contest but also a significant step for both athletes in their quest for title contention. Both fighters are known for their striking and grappling abilities, promising an action-packed showdown. Additionally, this matchup could highlight the growing talent pool in the flyweight division, particularly among Japanese fighters. With both competitors eager to prove themselves, this fight could set the stage for future championship opportunities.
