UFC 310 was a night that did not disappoint with a round of thrilling fights and exhilarating bouts.
The UFC 310 tournament’s headliner was a battle between flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja and former RIZIN champion Kai Asakura. This was Asakura’s debut fight in the UFC, and he did not disappoint despite suffering a loss after the five-round slugfest.
Asakura came into the cage with much momentum, landing shot after shot, but Pantoja met him at every corner. The fighter soon started to tire but Pantoja was just getting started. The Brazilian landed heavy punches and continued to fire, damaging shots and savage body kicks that did some damage to Asakura.
Pantoja showed the UFC newcomer why he’s the champ with his unrelenting barrage of blows and jabs. He soon scored a takedown and got on Asakura’s back, which gave him a greater advantage. He dismantled his opponent’s defences before snaking his arms under his chin and scoring a rear naked choke that led to a submission in the second round.
Following his third title defence, Pantoja has proven that he is one of the best flyweight fighters in the world and a formidable opponent. The fighter also called out retired fighter Demetrious Johnson, saying the fighter should return and test his mettle against him.
“This is the level, the UFC level that’s here so high,” Pantoja said following his third consecutive title defense. “You think some Japanese [fighter] going to come here and take my belt? No. When the octagon is locked, this is my town, this is my city.”
“He doesn’t fight anymore. He retired this year. But this is something for you Demetrious Johnson,” Pantoja shouted. “I’m the GOAT here. If you want to prove you’re the GOAT, come back.”
Shavkat Rakhmonov battled Ian Machado Garry in the co-main event of UFC 310 and delivered a stellar performance. The match was a fitting bout for Rakhmonov as this was his first-ever full five-round bout.
Rakhmonov is known for his nasty finishes and his skill in the cage, but it seems he met his match in Garry, who refused to back down and went round for round with the undefeated fighter. Rakhmonov came in hot in the opening round and went in for a clinch. He tried for a takedown, but Garry remained on his feet. He was soon rocked by a hard overhand that drove his defences up. Rakhmonov continued to land blow after blow and tried for another unsuccessful takedown.
Rakhmonov continued his onslaught of attacks, spinning back kicks and a takedown. Garry tried to get the upper hand and went in for a guillotine choke, but his attempt almost cost him the game. The two continued to exchange punches and grapple, with Garry giving it all he’s got and Rakhmonov trying to stay ahead of his opponent. Ultimately, Rakhmonov emerged victorious and was eager for his showdown with Belal Muhammad.
“Ian Garry’s a great guy, a great opponent. I’m glad I won,” Rakhmonov said. “We’re going to meet soon. Belal, let’s face off. Get ready, no more injuries, we’ll find out who is the better man.”
