Alexandre Pantoja has shown willingness for a potential superfight against UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili, but his priority remains defending his flyweight title. Pantoja is preparing to defend his championship against Kai Kara-France at UFC 317 on June 28, where the flyweight division is poised for exciting developments.
Pantoja’s Take on a Fight with Dvalishvili
Known as “The Cannibal,” Alexandre Pantoja recently spoke during UFC media day about the possibility of facing Merab Dvalishvili. While he respects Dvalishvili greatly and would accept the fight if given the chance, Pantoja emphasized his focus on his own division and upcoming challengers there. He said,
“I have a huge respect for Merab… Merab is a warrior man. He passed through everything like myself, and I have really respect for that… I want to fight the best in the world. If I have an opportunity to fight with Merab, of course, I would accept, but that’s not something I really look for. I have my division. I’m super excited for that division. There are a couple of new names coming.”
—Alexandre Pantoja, UFC Flyweight Champion
Background on Both Champions’ Title Runs
Alexandre Pantoja has established his dominance in the flyweight class with three consecutive successful title defenses over Brandon Royval, Steve Erceg, and Kai Asakura. On the other hand, Merab Dvalishvili has affirmatively held the bantamweight belt, undefeated in title defenses against Umar Nurmagomedov and Sean O’Malley. Their respective reigns highlight their elite status in different weight categories within the UFC.
Dvalishvili’s Openness to Crossing Weight Classes
Merab Dvalishvili also addressed the possibility of moving into Pantoja’s division to make the fight happen during an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show. He expressed no reluctance to shifting weight classes if UFC supports the matchup, recognizing the widespread interest it would generate. Dvalishvili stated,
“Yes, if [Pantoja] will move up in my weight class and UFC [are] interested with that, no problem. That would be [a] fight I’m sure a lot of people will be interested in. I respect Pantoja, he would be a tough opponent for me, and if Pantoja wants this and UFC wants this, I have no problem with that.”
—Merab Dvalishvili, UFC Bantamweight Champion
Significance of the Potential Superfight and Future Outlook
The potential superfight between Alexandre Pantoja and Merab Dvalishvili carries significant intrigue for fans and the UFC landscape, as it could blend two dominant champions from adjacent weight classes. While both athletes remain open to the idea, their current priority lies in defending their own divisions against upcoming threats. Pantoja’s upcoming bout with Kai Kara-France will be a critical test before any crossover fights can be seriously pursued, making UFC 317 a must-watch event for followers of both champions and the evolving flyweight class.