Flyweight Champion Alexandre Pantoja Defends Title At UFC 317 In Las Vegas

Alexandre Pantoja is set to defend his UFC flyweight title against Kai Kara-France at UFC 317, aiming to become the longest-reigning active UFC champion. Known for his submission skills and resilience, Pantoja has remained undefeated in recent fights and is favored to win again, with odds reflecting his likelihood of victory by submission, decision, or knockout. Despite Kara-France's knockout power and readiness to engage aggressively, he acknowledges that Pantoja's durability will require multiple significant strikes to defeat him early. Pantoja's coach, Henrique DaMatta, emphasizes Pantoja's 'challenger's mentality,' stressing the importance of treating every fight as the most important and preparing with full commitment, as the challenger comes to take the title with everything they have. Their previous encounter during The Ultimate Fighter saw Pantoja win by unanimous decision, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch. UFC 317 also features a main event between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira, but the flyweight title fight remains a significant highlight of the event.