Summary
Pantoja celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Alexandre pantoja gained extra motivation to fight in UFC 323. In the event that takes place this Saturday (6), in Las Vegas (USA), the flyweight champion (up to 57 kg) faces Joshua Van And, in addition to the responsibility of defending the title for the fifth time, he is also thrilled to receive such high praise from... Islam makhachev, one of the best MMA fighters today.
Recently, the former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) and current welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg) criticized the pound-for-pound ranking, which lists the best UFC fighters, arguing that he should be number one and that Pantoja should be in his top 3, that is, above the fifth place he currently occupies. In an exclusive interview with SUPER FIGHTS organized by 'StakeThe Brazilian celebrated the recognition of his work by an MMA legend and made a point of reciprocating the support, praising her. For many, the veteran, dominant in the flyweight division, is unfairly overlooked on the list.
“Regarding Makhachev’s praise, I’m happy. It shows that I’m doing well. I want this kind of praise from real athletes. Sometimes, there are a lot of people in the sport who don’t know what they’re talking about, but when you see a high-level guy like Makhachev praising you in this way, you know you’re on the right track. That’s why I fight. That’s what matters when you stop fighting, people of that caliber knowing, recognizing that you were among the greats,” said the UFC champion.
Currently in the top 5 pound-for-pound
In the UFC, the leader of the ranking table that brings together the best fighters across all weight classes is once again... Islam makhachev, who became the welterweight champion by dominating Jack Della Maddalenain November. Below the Russian are Ilia Topuria, Merab Dvalishvili, Khamzat Shimaev e Alexandre pantoja, in sequence.
Pantoja's records in the UFC
MMA veteran Alessandre Pantoja, 35, made his mark in the flyweight division as a dominant champion. The Brazilian holds the record for most wins in UFC flyweight history (14), by stoppage (8) and submission (6). His main victories in the organization were against Brandon Moreno (twice), Brandon royval (twice), Kai Asakura, Kai Kara France, Manel kape e Steve Erceg.
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