Alexandre Pantoja's Dominant Win at UFC 317: Backstage Insights
Alexandre Pantoja shares insights on his UFC 317 victory over Kai Kara-France in a backstage interview. He discusses his strategy, respects his opponent, and looks ahead to future challenges in the flyweight division.
Backstage with the Flyweight Champion
In a revealing backstage interview at UFC 317, Alexandre Pantoja spoke with UFC.com's Maddyn Johnstone-Thomas following his impressive victory over Kai Kara-France. The flyweight champion successfully defended his title with a third-round submission via rear-naked choke on June 28, 2025, in Las Vegas. Pantoja's performance solidified his status as a dominant force in the division, marking another milestone in his record-breaking career with the most wins, submission wins, and finishes in UFC Flyweight history.
Reflecting on the Fight
During the conversation, Pantoja expressed satisfaction with his performance against Kara-France. He highlighted his strategic approach, noting how he managed to control the fight and secure the submission. Around the 2:30 mark, he discussed the importance of adapting to his opponent's style, emphasizing his preparation and ability to execute under pressure. The champion's confidence was evident as he broke down key moments that led to his victory, showcasing his technical prowess and mental fortitude in the octagon.
Respect for Kai Kara-France
Pantoja also took time to acknowledge his opponent’s skills and resilience. At approximately the 4:15 point in the interview, he praised Kara-France for being a tough competitor, recognizing the challenge posed during their rematch. Having first met on The Ultimate Fighter, this fight carried added significance with UFC gold on the line. Pantoja’s respect for his rival underscored the sportsmanship that defines the sport, even after a dominant display.
Looking Ahead in the Division
Toward the latter part of the discussion, around the 6:00 timestamp, Pantoja shared thoughts on his future in the flyweight division. He mentioned his readiness to face new challenges, hinting at potential matchups while remaining focused on maintaining his reign as champion. His comments reflected a fighter who is not content to rest on his laurels, eager to continue building his legacy with each title defense. This backstage moment provided a glimpse into the mindset of a champion poised for more historic achievements.
