LAS VEGAS -- At UFC 310, Alexandre Pantoja defended his flyweight title in dominant fashion, submitting the Japanese knockout artist, Kai Asakura, via rear-naked choke in the second round. From the first moments of the fight Pantoja showcased his dynamic grappling skill, controlling Asakura on the ground. Despite Asakura's accolades as a decorated RIZIN champion, he was unable to mount any meaningful offense, with Pantoja dictating the pace and position throughout the bout. Moments after the second round began, Pantoja managed to once against secure a dominant position on Asakura, and ultimately finish the bout via submission.
The submission victory marks Pantoja’s third successful title defense, solidifying his position among the flyweight division’s all-time greats.
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The co-main event featured a high-stakes welterweight clash, where Shavkat Rakhmonov defeated Ian Garry by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 49-48. The fight was a technical and physical test for both fighters, and was a high level display of their contrasting styles. Rakhmonov dominated in the clinch, frequently pressing Garry against the cage and controlling the action with relentless pressure. Garry found some success at range, working his jab and low kicks to chip away at his opponent, but struggled to inflict significant damage.
Rakhmonov’s victory extended his unbeaten record to 19-0, though it marked the end of his remarkable 18-fight finishing streak. Post-fight, welterweight champion Belal Muhammad entered the Octagon for a tense face-off with Rakhmonov, signaling the next title bout in the division and setting the stage for a future championship showdown.
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