Alexandre Pantoja Doesn't Rule Out Merab Dvalishvili, But Indicates Next Opponent Among UFC Flyweights

Alexandre Pantoja is the UFC flyweight champion. Photo: Reproduction X/UFC

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Alexandre Pantoja will attempt his fourth consecutive title defense next Saturday (28), in the co-main event of UFC 317. The Brazilian will face Kai Kara-France , fourth in the flyweight division ranking (up to 56,7kg) in Las Vegas (USA). But what will come next if the champion is successful in the fight? He was questioned during the 'media day' and did not rule out the possibility of facing the bantamweight champion (up to 65,7kg) Merab Dvalishvili.

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Alexandre Pantoja in an interview at UFC. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube

Pantoja reveals thoughts on attempting 10 title defenses or winning second belt

“I have a huge amount of respect for Merab. Merab has been through everything like me and I have a lot of respect for that. … I want to fight the best in the world. If I have the opportunity to fight Merab, of course I would take it, but that’s not something I really seek,” Pantoja said at a news conference.

According to the athlete's statements, his career priority right now is to continue 'cleaning up' the flyweight division. Pantoja pointed to a prospect as a possible opponent in the octagon: Joshua Van.

“I have my weight class. I’m super excited for it. There are some new names coming up. Joshua Van is a good surprise for everyone. He fights very well. He had a very good fight against Bruno, and maybe he’ll be my next challenger,” said the champion.

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UFC 317: Brazilians parade at International Fight Week

Charles do Bronx and Alexandre Pantoja will fight for belts in June (Photo: Montage/SUPER LUTAS)

Responsible for closing the traditional International Fight Week , UFC 317 , one of the most anticipated events of 2025, had its final card completed with 12 fights, including two title bouts. In addition to the main event between Ilia Topuria and Charles do Bronx , in the co-main event, the current flyweight champion (up to 56,7 kg), Alexandre Pantoja , seeks his fourth title defense against Kai Kara-France , reviving a rivalry that began in 2016 on The Ultimate Fighter, when the Brazilian defeated the New Zealander.

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In addition to the title fights, Brazil will be represented by five other fighters: Renato Moicano faces Beneil Dariush in the lightweight division; Felipe Lima takes on Payton Talbott in the bantamweight division; and on the preliminary card, Gregory Robocop faces Jack Hermansson , Viviane Araújo goes head-to-head with Tracy Cortez , and heavyweight Jhonata Diniz duels with Alvin Hines.