Flamengo fan Alexandre Pantoja reflects on his dream of meeting Zico

Pantoja (dir.) together with José Aldo (left) and Zico (center). Photo: X.

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Since becoming UFC flyweight champion (up to 56,7 kg), the life of Alexandre pantoja changed in several aspects. The achievement allowed the Brazilian to experience very special moments, which until then were not accessible to the athlete. One of these experiences happened in May of this year, when he met the former soccer player Zico, an idol of the Rio native and a Flamengo fan at heart.

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“This is really cool. Zico is a legend in Brazil and around the world. This champion treatment is wonderful for me. I love football and watch it a lot. I had the opportunity to go to a Brazil game in Las Vegas and go to the locker room to talk to the players and the coach. I go to Flamengo, my club. I spoke to the players there too. I love being in this position,” said the fighter in an interview with the North American website. Bloody elbow.

José Aldo and Pantoja visit Zico before the UFC 301#UFCBR | #UFC301

— FutbooBR (@FutbooBR) May 2, 2024

At the time of the meeting with Galinho de Quintino, Pantoja was preparing to defend the belt for the second time against Steve Erceg No. UFC 301, held in Rio de Janeiro. He won the duel by unanimous decision in a very exciting fight. This Saturday (7), he returns to the octagon against Kai Asakura to once again retain the title.

Alexandre pantoja in struggle for UFC 301. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram UFC

Pantoja has been waiting for this moment his entire life

A veteran of the sport with 33 professional fights, Pantoja arrived at the biggest MMA organization in the world through TUF 24, in 2016. Despite being one of the favorites, he was unable to win the competition and earn the right to face Demetrious Johnson for the title. However, after evolving as an athlete, the title came in July of last year.

Pantoja is the UFC flyweight champion. Photo: Courtesy of UFC.

Aware of the new reality, the Brazilian stated that he is aware that even though he has had enriching experiences, it is also necessary to understand the responsibilities that come with representing MMA in Brazil and around the world.

“I think I should live like a champion and show people why I am a world champion, with my actions. I have my children here and that is a lot of responsibility. I want to be a great champion. That is who I am,” concluded the fighter, also speaking at Bloody Elbow.