After UFC 310, Dana White evaluates the possibility of a fight between Alexandre Pantoja and Demetrious Johnson

Alexandre pantoja in presentation at UFC 310. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India

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after the UFC 310, held last Saturday (7), the president of the organization, Dana White, commented on the challenge launched by Alexandre pantoja a Demetrious Johnson by the title of 'GOAT' (best of all time) in the flyweight division (up to 56,7 kg). The Brazilian, who retained the belt after submitting Kai Asakura, surprised everyone by sending a direct message to the former champion to propose a fight to define who really deserves the position.

In a post-event interview, Dana was asked about the possibility of a fight between Pantoja and Demetrious, who announced his retirement in September of this year, after a history of 11 title defenses in the UFC and a stint in ONE Championship. The president did not completely rule out the idea, but he was cautious.

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“I don’t know. It’s interesting. I was the one who defended Demetrious Johnson a long time ago (as the greatest). And it is, I don't know,” White stated.

Pantoja's challenge

After his victory over Kai Asakura, at the event held in Las Vegas (USA), Alexandre pantoja (who now has three UFC title defenses) used the opportunity to issue a challenge to Demetrious Johnson.

“It would be a special fight for a retired fighter, he doesn't fight anymore, he retired this year, but this is my message to you: Demetrious Johnson, I'm the GOAT here. If you want to prove you're the GOAT, come back,” he declared.

Pantoja, 34, has shown absolute dominance in the division and has already had important victories against the top names in the category, including Brandon Moreno, Brandon royval and most recently Kai Asakura. His current record is 29 wins and five losses.

Demetrious Johnson's Retirement

Demetrious Johnson, in turn, was one of the greatest champions in UFC history, having won and defended the flyweight belt a record 11 times between 2013 and 2017. His retirement was announced in September 2023, when he was still active in ONE Championship.

The 38-year-old American revealed that he was offered US$2 million (around R$12,1 million) to return to competition, but chose to stay away, highlighting that his plans are focused on other projects.

“I refused, I don’t want to fight anymore, the YouTube video will be out soon,” he replied.

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