"I’m not the best flyweight in the world anymore" - Demetrious Johnson explains reluctance to return after dismissing Alexandre Pantoja's callout

Demetrious Johnson has firmly closed the door on a potential return to the UFC, even after Alexandre Pantoja’s recent callout. The former UFC flyweight champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest in the division’s history, expressed no desire to re-enter competition despite Pantoja’s dominance in recent times.

Pantoja, fresh off a victory against Kai Asakura at UFC 310, has established himself as a dominant champion with three title defenses and a remarkable seven-fight win streak. His achievements have placed him among the elite, tying Johnson and others in several divisional records. However, these accolades are not enough for Johnson to spark a comeback.

Johnson, who holds an unprecedented 11 consecutive title defenses in the UFC, has transitioned to life outside the octagon. He has embraced his post-fight career, focusing on business ventures and personal projects that provide long-term security beyond the physical toll of competition.

At 38, he believes his legacy is secure and sees no value in risking it for another fight, even with lucrative offers. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Johnson said:

“Guys I’m retired. I have no interest to fight anymore. I’m so happy for Alex Pantoja. I’m happy he got his third title defense. I’m so happy for him."

Johnson added:

“I am not the best flyweight in the world anymore. My Black ass is retired and I’m happily retired. I ain’t going to be no motherf*cking Jose Aldo. I ain’t going to be no motherf*cking Donald Cerrone coming back to fight. There ain’t no point to coming back to fight. What am I going to prove when I come back to f*cking fight?”

Johnson retired in September after an illustrious career that concluded in ONE Championship, where he captured the flyweight title and was inducted into the ONE Hall of Fame

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Comparing Alexandre Pantoja and Demetrious Johnson's records in the UFC

Alexandre Pantoja and Demetrious Johnson's legacy in the UFC has set a benchmark that defines the flyweight division's evolution. Johnson, the inaugural flyweight champion, holds a record 12 victories in title fights, while Pantoja follows with four, the second-most in divisional history.

Pantoja’s current seven-fight win streak is the longest active win streak at 125-pounds. He matches Johnson’s seven stoppages and five submissions in flyweight competition, sharing those accolades with other elites like Deiveson Figueiredo. Johnson edges out in fight-night bonuses with nine, compared to Pantoja’s six.

Johnson also holds the record for the most title defenses in UFC history (11) and the most submission wins in UFC title fights (5).