11 days ago

Alexandre Pantoja Says Islam, Topuria, and Khamzat Are Forcing UFC To Evolve

Pantoja says today’s champions are raising the standard across divisions. “Look at Islam Makhachev, Ilia Topuria, Khamzat Chimaev,” the ex-UFC flyweight champ said. “Those guys have elevated the sport.” He argues challengers can’t rely on one skill anymore: “If you want to take their belts, you’ll have to evolve.” Pantoja lost his title against Joshua Van via TKO in 2025.