Alexandre Pantoja has voiced strong dissatisfaction with the current UFC pound-for-pound rankings, asserting he deserves a spot just below Islam Makhachev. This statement follows his recent successful defense of the flyweight title at UFC 317 last Saturday, where he submitted Kai Kara-France in the third round.
Although Islam Makhachev sits atop the UFC P4P list, Pantoja finds his own ninth-place ranking, which places him behind several prominent fighters, inconsistent with his track record. At the post-fight press conference of UFC 317, Pantoja expressed his frustration over these rankings.
Pantoja Challenges UFC P4P Rankings and Defends His Standing
Despite holding the flyweight championship and coming off a decisive win, Alexandre Pantoja criticized the UFC’s placement of him in the rankings, questioning the logic behind the list. He emphasized his recent fight history, noting a strong winning streak and multiple title defenses as reasons he should be elevated higher, specifically just after Makhachev.
“I’m just behind Islam Makhachev. [My ranking] doesn’t make sense. Five fights for title, eight victories in streak — numbers don’t lie, brother. The only guy I accept is Islam Makhachev because he has numbers… You put Jack [Della] Maddalena above me? You think I need to beat Jack Maddalena to get his position? It’s time to respect flyweights.”
—Alexandre Pantoja, UFC Flyweight Champion
According to the latest UFC pound-for-pound rankings, Pantoja stands behind fighters including Merab Dvalishvili, Ilia Topuria, and Jack Della Maddalena, which contrasts with his assertion of deserving a higher position.
Pantoja on the Prospect of Facing Merab Dvalishvili in Bantamweight
Following his record-setting performance in the flyweight division—where he currently holds the records for most wins (14), finishes (8), and submissions (6)—speculation has grown about Pantoja possibly moving up to bantamweight. The discussion centers on a potential showdown with bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili.
However, Pantoja firmly dismissed the idea, emphasizing his commitment to his own division and the title he currently holds.
“Merab is a huge guy… He’s so good [at] heart. He deserves [the bantamweight] belt, you know, and I have my division man. I’m a 125-pound champion. Why I [will] think about going to the bantamweight? I don’t think about that. If I go to bantamweight, then [I will have to] leave my belt. No way, man. You need [to] beat me in the octagon to leave this belt.”
—Alexandre Pantoja, UFC Flyweight Champion
Implications of Pantoja’s Comments for UFC Rankings and Divisional Politics
Pantoja’s outspoken criticism sheds light on perceived inconsistencies within the UFC’s ranking methodology, especially regarding how flyweight fighters are valued compared to other divisions. His demand for greater respect signals a broader conversation about how rankings reflect achievements and fight records.
With Islam Makhachev firmly in the top pound-for-pound spot, Pantoja’s claim to be directly beneath him could ignite debate among fans, analysts, and officials. How the UFC responds may influence future ranking updates and potential matchups, particularly if Pantoja continues to amass victories in the flyweight division.