RIZIN alum Kai Asakura responds to fan backlash over UFC title shot on debut

Former RIZIN champ and soon-to-be UFC debutant Kai Asakura has hit back at fans who have criticized his upcoming title shot. The 30-year-old is set to make his debut in the promotion at UFC 310 on Dec. 7, with the event taking place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Asakura has also been thrown in the deep end and will face Alexandre Pantoja for the men's flyweight title in his first fight in the UFC.

The Japanese talent has been tipped for success in the octagon due to his impressive record in RIZIN. Asakura is a former multi-time RIZIN bantamweight champ and has built up a 21-4 professional record throughout his career.

After the UFC announced the signing of Kai Asakura earlier this year, many expected him to face some of the top contenders in the flyweight division first. Manel Kape had been rumored as a potential opponent, as the pair previously faced off twice during their time in RIZIN.

The UFC opted to hand Asakura a title shot instead and the decision has led to both the promotion and the Japanese fighter receiving backlash from fans. Many feel as though he is undeserving of the fight, and would rather have seen him earn his shot.

Kai Asakura then took to X to respond to his critics, stating that he had previously overcome similar odds during his career. Translated to English via Google Translate, Asakura statement read as follows:

"A lot of people say I can't win a title match, but I've overcome similar adversity and I believe I can win, and I'll prove it in the cage."

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Brandon Royval weighs in on Kai Asakura's UFC debut title fight, predicts Alexandre Pantoja victory

UFC men's flyweight contender Brandon Royval has shared his thoughts on Kai Asakura's upcoming debut against Alexandre Pantoja.

At UFC 310, Asakura will be looking to make history as he attempts to not only win the men's flyweight title on his debut but also become the promotion's first-ever Japanese champion.

During the UFC Vegas 98 post-fight presser, Royval was asked for his take on Asakura fighting for a title on his promotional debut. He replied saying:

''I've been watching Kai Asakura for a while, I think he's sick. I think there's a lot of cool things, he's yet to make flyweight. So I'll be there and I'll be ready just in case he doesn't. That being said, I’ll give the man his roses, I think he brings a lot of excitement to the division but I think if Pantoja grapples him at all it’s gonna be over”

Check out Brandon Rovyal's here (4:48):