The odds for the Pantoja vs Asakura fight indicate that the reigning champion is favored to defend his flyweight title when Alexandre Pantoja faces UFC newcomer Kai Asakura in the main event at UFC 310 on December 7. Pantoja is a -275 favorite, while Asakura is the +225 underdog.
The UFC is looking to inject fresh talent into the 125-pound division, and Asakura, hailing from Japan, comes straight from Rizin, where he held the bantamweight championship. Known for his exciting fighting style, Asakura is making his UFC debut, though there are concerns about his ability to make weight.
Alexandre Pantoja
Pantoja is notably strong for the flyweight division, and with his outstanding BJJ skills, he holds an advantage in the clinch and grappling exchanges against Asakura, who is primarily a striker.
When betting on Pantoja, I’m torn between picking him to win by decision or submission. It’s unlikely he’ll outstrike a seasoned fighter like Asakura, and while a ground-and-pound knockout is possible, I’d lean toward other outcomes.
Although “The Cannibal” is known for his brutal back-take and powerful squeeze, his last three fights have all gone the full 25 minutes, so I’m inclined to bet on another decision at UFC 310.
Kai Asakura
Kai is a smooth striker who relies on his natural talent to land quick and powerful combinations. In this regard, he will have the advantage over Pantoja at UFC 310. However, there are two key factors that could hinder an upset by Asakura.
First, I’m concerned about how he will manage the cut to 125 pounds. The former Rizin champ hasn’t fought at flyweight in over seven years and missed weight in his last attempt. That’s not ideal.
Second, Pantoja has never been finished in his 33 professional MMA fights. The only fighter to even knock him down was Deiveson Figueiredo. Unless something unexpected happens, this fight is likely to extend into Rounds 3 and 4 with a potentially weight-drained Asakura, which doesn’t bode well for a knockout.
If you’re backing the underdog, consider betting on Asakura outright.
Pantoja vs Asakura Betting Picks
👊UFC 310: Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura
🕖: 10PM EST Main Card – PPV event on ESPN+
✅ PICK: Pantoja by Decision (+300)
✅ PICK: OVER 2.5 Rounds (-134)
UFC 310 Main Card Betting Picks
The AI predicted winners of the UFC 310 main card
✅ Pantoja
✅ Rakhmonov
✅ Gane
✅ Mitchell
✅ Landwehr
No matter who all wins tonight one thing is for sure: This is going to be one hell of a UFC event!
