Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja will defend his title against newcomer Kai Asakura in the headlining bout of UFC 310, later tonight (Dec.7) at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Pantoja (28-5) is on a dream run in UFC. 'The Cannibal' holds wins over several top contenders including former champion Brandon Moreno. With two title defenses under his belt, the Brazilan will be coming to the pay-per-view riding a six-fight win streak.
The 34-year-old often utilizes his superior grappling skills to outclass opponents, and many believe that this time around it wouldn't be any different
In the other half of the event, Asakura (21-4) will make his UFC debut at the pay-per-view. However, the 31-year-old is not just any debutant, this hard-hitting Japanese national is a two-time RIZIN bantamweight champion infamous for his violent knockouts.
Get the latest updates on One Championship Rankings at Sportskeeda and more
If Asakura pulls off the upset, he will become the first Japanese champion in UFC history and the promotion will get another megastar.
DraftKings Sportsbook sees Pantoja as a -270 favorite for the fight, with Asakura as a +220 underdog.
Check out the main card fight odds below:
The main card of UFC 310 is now live. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the fight card.
UFC 310: Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura
Round 1
Pantoja leads the action but Asakura explodes with a flying knee as he closes the distance. After a scramble on the ground, the champion stuns the challenger with a right hand.
A minute into the fight 'The Cannibal' forces a takedown on his opponent. The Japanese national explodes onto his feet. He connects with a Superman punch. Askaura unloads a hard low kick.
A beautiful knee to the body lands for the challenger. Another knee strike lands for Asakura. Pantoja is however fighting on the front foot trying to corner his opponent into the cage.
A high kick lands spatially for the challenger. Pantoja answered with an inside low kick, followed by a knee strike. A body kick behind a 1-2 lands for the champion. 'The Cannibal' seems to be taking over even in the striking exchanges.
Our score: 10-9 Pantoja
Round 2
A good jab connects for Pantoja. The champion tries to force a takedown but pivots to secure his opponent's back. 'The Cannible' kicks his opponent's leg out and forces the fight to the mat.
The champion locks in a rear naked choke. The Japanese national refuses to tap. The referee stops the contest seeing that Asakura has been choked unconscious.
Pantoja is the victor.
Official result: Alexandre Pantoja def. Kai Asakura via submission. (RNC 2:05 of Round 2)
Check out Alexandre Pantoja celebrate his win below: