Alexandre Pantoja reacts to the UFC division's GOAT's retirement announcement: 'Huge respect'

Alexandre Pantoja defends his title for the third time at UFC 310. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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Although he is focused on his fight against Kai Asakura , which takes place this Saturday (7) at UFC 310 , Alexandre Pantoja still believes that Demetrious Johnson would be an opponent who would add a lot to his legacy. The flyweight champion (up to 56,7kg) revealed that he would love to have the opportunity to challenge the GOAT of the division, but now that Johnson has announced his retirement, the Brazilian hopes to be able to learn something from him.

In an interview with 'MMA Fighting', Pantoja expressed respect for Demetrious Johnson and named the former champion as one of the greatest of all time. The Brazilian acknowledged the impact Johnson had on the division and highlighted how his career paved the way for other fighters.

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“Now that he’s retired, the UFC could sign him again. I don’t know if they can do that, but it’s the only thing I can think about. But of course, enormous respect for him. He’s a GOAT and I respect everything he did for my division, for me, for all the guys. We needed respect because I need to pay my bills. I’m a fighter, I’m a professional. That’s my job. And Demetrious Johnson opened up space for us. He was unstoppable, undefeated for so long, that’s crazy,” said the flyweight champion.

Pantoja has a record of 28 wins and only 5 losses. The champion has faced the top fighters in the flyweight division on his way to winning the UFC title. At 34 years old, the Brazilian recognizes that an opportunity to face, or even train with, the greatest fighter in the history of the division would greatly enhance his career.

“I train with the best fighters in the world. I have the opportunity to fight against the best fighters in the world. I can fight many good guys in the UFC, but if Demetrious Johnson is completely retired and doesn't fight anymore, maybe we can just train, because it's something I want to pursue in my life,” Pantoja concluded.

Alexandre Pantoja puts his belt on the line for the second time this Saturday (7) at UFC 310 , after winning the title at UFC 290 against Brandon Moreno in July 2023. The Brazilian won six fights in a row, including the victory by decision over Steve Erceg at UFC 301 in May, in his first title defense.

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