After being dominated by Alexandre Pantoja, former UFC challenger announces drastic career change

Kai Asakura was defeated by Alexandre pantoja in his UFC debut. Photo: Instagram/ Kai Asakura

Definitely, the first experiences of Kai Asakura in the UFC were not good at all. Former Rizin flyweight champion (up to 61,2 kg) and a popular phenomenon in Asia, the Japanese fighter had the opportunity to debut in the biggest MMA organization in the world in a title fight with Alexandre pantoja. However, he ended up being finished by the Brazilian and then suffered the same fate against the veteran. Tim Elliott.

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The setback against the American forced Asakura to drop down the rankings of one of the lowest-ranked divisions in all of MMA. Now, determined to live up to the expectations of fans and the media, he made the decision to move up a weight class. He spoke about the decision in video on YouTube.

"I'm moving up a weight class, so I'll have to prepare properly and get my body back in shape. It might be next year, but I'll definitely win my next fight. Not because someone told me to, but because I've always acted based on my own instincts. I want to win," the fighter stated.

Asakura competed in another category before facing Pantoja

Alexandre pantoja complete Kai Asakura No. UFC 310. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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If confirmed, the change would be in line with the athlete's track record. While competing in Rizin, the Japanese fighter spent most of his career at 61,2 kg, which corresponds to the bantamweight division in the UFC. Under these conditions, he defeated names like Kyoji Horiguchi.

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