A flyweight title fight is scheduled to headline Dana White’s final pay-per-view event of the year.
Welterweight champion Belal Muhammad was originally set to defend his title, but due to a bone infection causing severe swelling in his toe, he had to withdraw from his fight with Shavkat Rakhmonov. Rakhmonov will now take on Ian Garry in the co-main event at UFC 310.
Consequently, Alexandre Pantoja will face Kai Asakura as the main attraction for Saturday’s fight card.
The reactions from fans regarding the UFC 310 title fight are mixed. The staff at BloodyElbow.com also express a range of opinions about how the bout between Pantoja and Asakura will unfold at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Jordan Ellis predicts, “I just can’t see past the three knockout losses on Kai Asakura’s record. Flyweights aren’t known for their KO power, so those defeats suggest a chin or defense issue that Alexandre Pantoja will be able to exploit during the UFC 310 main event.”
PREDICTION: Alexandre Pantoja by KO
Donagh Corby expresses a romantic notion about the sport: “I would love to see Kai Asakura arrive in the UFC and immediately shake up the whole scene with an upset win. However, looking at the current landscape, it’s hard to see him dethroning Alexandre Pantoja right now.”
PREDICTION: Alexandre Pantoja by decision
Jamie Theodosi remarks, “This main event is extremely intriguing. Pantoja tends to look relatively sloppy with his striking and fatigues early but always finds a second wind. However, he faces a phenomenal power puncher with excellent striking in Asakura.”
PREDICTION: Kai Asakura by KO
Tom Llewellyn notes, “It’s hard not to jump on the Kai Asakura hype train. Although he may be the less experienced fighter, with Pantoja nearing 35, UFC 310 could be primed for an underdog victory.”
PREDICTION: Kai Asakura
James Sweetnam adds, “The main event is undeniably captivating, as Asakura, who has dominated the Japanese scene, steps into the UFC aiming for the biggest prize in MMA. However, Alexandre Pantoja presents the toughest challenge of his career. Asakura might excel in striking but lacks experience at this elite level.”
PREDICTION: Alexandre Pantoja by decision
Curtis Calhoun suggests that “Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura will feature a high-octane pace. Pantoja will employ heavy wrestling to disrupt Asakura’s striking while being willing to engage on the feet. Ultimately, Pantoja’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will carry the day.”
PREDICTION: Alexandre Pantoja by submission
Oscar Pick states, “I believe that Alexandre Pantoja will win on points. While Kai Asakura boasts impressive kickboxing credentials, Pantoja’s experience at the elite level should carry him through the rounds.”
PREDICTION: Alexandre Pantoja
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