After being dominated by Alexandre Pantoja, former UFC challenger announces drastic career change

Kai Asakura was defeated by Alexandre Pantoja in his UFC debut. Photo: Instagram/ Kai Asakura

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Kai Asakura 's first experiences in the UFC were definitely not good. The former Rizin flyweight champion (up to 61,2 kg) and a popular figure in Asia, the Japanese fighter had the opportunity to debut in the world's largest MMA organization in a title fight against Alexandre Pantoja . However, he ended up being submitted by the Brazilian and subsequently suffered the same fate against veteran Tim Elliott.

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The setback against the American caused Asakura to drop out of the rankings in one of the shallowest divisions in all of MMA. Now, determined to meet the expectations of fans and the media, he has decided to move up a weight class. He spoke about the decision in a video on YouTube.

"I'm moving up a weight class, so I'll have to prepare properly and get my body back in shape. It might be next year, but I'll definitely win my next fight. Not because someone told me to, but because I've always acted based on my own instincts. I want to win," the fighter stated.

Asakura competed in another category before facing Pantoja

Alexandre Pantoja submits Kai Asakura at UFC 310. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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If confirmed, the change would be in line with the athlete's track record. While competing in Rizin, the Japanese fighter spent most of his career at 61,2 kg, which corresponds to the bantamweight division in the UFC. Under these conditions, he defeated names like Kyoji Horiguchi.

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