The culmination of the UFC events in 2024 was marked by UFC 310, held in the iconic T-Mobile Arena of Las Vegas. This event showcased a rich tapestry of victories, defeats, and historical milestones, delivering thrilling moments for fight fans. With the spotlight on established champions and rising stars, the night was defined by exceptional performances, significant records, and the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts (MMA).
The headlining bout featured Alexandre Pantoja, the reigning UFC flyweight champion, as he faced off against Kai Asakura, a dual RIZIN FF champion making his long-awaited octagon debut. Pantoja (29-5 MMA, 13-3 UFC) showcased his grappling prowess, securing a second-round submission victory over Asakura (21-5 MMA, 0-1 UFC), thus achieving his third successful title defense.
Pantoja’s victory not only solidified his status in the flyweight division but also positioned him among elite company. His three title defenses now tie him with fellow champions Islam Makhachev and Alex Pereira for the most active title defenses in the UFC. Historically, Pantoja has also etched his name into the record books with four flyweight championship victories, ranking second only to the legendary Demetrious Johnson, who boasts an impressive 12.
Pantoja’s performance highlighted a slew of career statistics that reflect his dominance. He now shares the record for most victories (13) in UFC flyweight competition with MMA icons Johnson and Joseph Benavidez. His seven-fight winning streak in the UFC flyweight class remains unparalleled, showcasing his consistency and skill in one of the most competitive divisions in MMA. Additionally, Pantoja’s seven stoppage wins in flyweight bouts place him in elite territory, where he stands alongside both Johnson and Deiveson Figueiredo.
Asakura’s loss was a hard-hitting moment for him, marking his first submission defeat and reminding fans of the difficulties many experienced fighters face when transitioning to the UFC. This bout emphasized the challenges that come with the octagon’s high-level competition, especially against seasoned champions like Pantoja.
Among the evening’s noteworthy performances was Shavkat Rakhmonov (19-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC), who continued to build on his impressive career by earning a decision victory. Rakhmonov, tied with Jack Della Maddalena for the longest active winning streak (seven) in the welterweight division, demonstrated tremendous endurance and skill that suggests a bright future. Conversely, Ian Machado Garry’s (15-1 MMA, 8-1 UFC) remarkable 15-fight winning streak came to an unexpected halt, marking the first failure in his career.
The event showcased the heartbreaking reality of competition in MMA; even the most promising fighters face unexpected setbacks. Notably, Dominick Reyes (14-4 MMA, 8-4 UFC) dominated his opponent statistically, outlanding them by an impressive margin, further establishing his striking capabilities even as he navigates the complexities of his own career recovery.
Bryce Mitchell (17-2 MMA, 8-2 UFC) reveled in his first knockout win ever, breaking a pattern that many might have expected to define his career. As for Kron Gracie (5-3 MMA, 1-3 UFC), the fall from grace continued as he suffered his third loss, raising questions about his adaptations and future in the sport after a promising start.
The evolution of established fighters was also in focus; Eryk Anders (17-7 MMA, 9-8 UFC) and Chris Weidman (16-8 MMA, 12-8 UFC) reminded fans of the thin line between glory and struggle in the octagon. As fighters like Anders find ways to capitalize on their skills, Weidman grapples with a series of losses that threaten to overshadow his historic legacy.
UFC 310 produced fresh narratives, particularly with fighters like Movsar Evloev (19-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) continuing their ascent through the ranks. Evloev’s ability to secure victories exclusively via decision speaks volumes about his fight IQ and grappling skills in a division rife with knockout powerhouses.
On the other hand, the continuing saga of veteran fighters such as Anthony Smith (37-21 MMA, 13-11 UFC) reminds fans of the cyclical nature of sports, where wins and losses shape not only fighter legacies but also their respective divisions.
As UFC 310 draws to a close, it serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of mixed martial arts, underlining the persistent rise of champions, the heartbreaking falls of favorites, and the inevitable emergence of new talent ready to take center stage in the sport.