UFC 310: A Night of Unforgettable Fights and Dominant Performances
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 310 event, held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, was a spectacle that will be remembered for its thrilling bouts and standout performances. The highlight of the night was the flyweight title bout between reigning champion Alexandre Pantoja and the highly anticipated newcomer Kai Asakura. This event marked the final pay-per-view of the UFC’s 2024 schedule, drawing fans from around the globe to witness the culmination of a year’s worth of hard-hitting action. With the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET, the anticipation was palpable as fans settled in for a night of electrifying fights broadcasted on ESPN+ PPV.
Alexandre Pantoja entered the octagon as the flyweight champion, carrying the weight of expectation and the pressure of defending his title for the third time. His opponent, Kai Asakura, made his UFC debut amidst much fanfare, having previously been a Rizin bantamweight champion. Asakura’s entry into the UFC was not just another fight; it was a test of his mettle against one of the most formidable fighters in the division. The clash between Pantoja’s grappling prowess and Asakura’s explosive striking was a narrative that fans eagerly anticipated, hoping to see if the newcomer could dethrone the seasoned champion.
The co-main event featured an equally exciting matchup between two undefeated welterweights, Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Machado Garry. Both fighters came into the fight with unblemished records, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their bout. Rakhmonov, known for his tactical approach and relentless pressure, faced off against Garry, whose striking and movement had earned him a reputation as a rising star in the division. This bout was not only about maintaining an undefeated streak but also about positioning oneself for a future title shot, making every punch and takedown attempt crucial.
As the night unfolded, the T-Mobile Arena was filled with over 18,000 fans, all eager to witness the high-stakes drama of UFC 310. The prelims began at 8 p.m. ET, setting the stage for the main card with a series of intense battles. These preliminary fights, available on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, showcased the depth of talent within the UFC, with fighters vying for recognition and a chance to move up the ranks. The early prelims, starting at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass, provided a glimpse into the future of the sport, featuring up-and-coming fighters eager to make their mark.
The main event between Pantoja and Asakura lived up to the hype, with Pantoja successfully defending his title by submitting Asakura with a rear-naked choke in the second round. Pantoja’s grappling skills were on full display, as he expertly neutralized Asakura’s striking and controlled the fight from start to finish. Despite Asakura’s impressive speed and power, he found himself overwhelmed by Pantoja’s relentless pressure and strategic maneuvering. The submission victory not only extended Pantoja’s winning streak to seven but also solidified his status as one of the greatest flyweights of all time.
In the aftermath of his victory, Pantoja did not shy away from expressing his confidence and ambitions. He boldly declared that no Japanese fighter would take his belt, a statement underscoring his dominance in the division. Pantoja also called out retired legend Demetrious Johnson, challenging him to come out of retirement to settle the debate of who is the greatest flyweight of all time. While Johnson’s return remains uncertain, Pantoja’s challenge highlighted his desire to cement his legacy and prove himself against the best in the sport’s history.
Elsewhere on the card, Shavkat Rakhmonov emerged victorious against Ian Machado Garry, winning via unanimous decision in a highly tactical fight. Rakhmonov’s performance was a masterclass in strategy and execution, as he effectively neutralized Garry’s striking and controlled the pace of the fight. With this victory, Rakhmonov positioned himself as a top contender for the welterweight title, setting up a future showdown with Belal Muhammad in 2025. This win further cemented Rakhmonov’s reputation as a fighter to watch in the coming years.
The event also featured a controversial split decision victory for Cyrill Gane over Alexander Volkov. The fight was closely contested, with UFC President Dana White expressing his belief that Volkov should have won. However, two judges scored the fight in Gane’s favor, leading to a split decision that sparked debate among fans and analysts alike. Despite the controversy, Gane’s victory added another chapter to his career, as he continues to climb the heavyweight ranks.
Jamahal Hill delivered one of the night’s most memorable finishes, defeating Gregory Popmond Mitchell with a last-second slam and elbow combination. Hill’s victory showcased his resilience and ability to capitalize on opportunities, earning him a performance bonus and further enhancing his standing in the light heavyweight division. Meanwhile, Kennedy Nzechukwu secured a TKO victory over Lukasz Brzeski, demonstrating his striking prowess and potential as a future contender.
The night was not without its disappointments, as Kron Gracie suffered another loss, appearing out of his depth in the UFC. Gracie’s struggles highlighted the challenges faced by fighters transitioning from traditional martial arts backgrounds to the multifaceted world of mixed martial arts. Despite his pedigree, Gracie’s performance underscored the need for adaptation and evolution in a sport that demands versatility and resilience.
As the dust settled on UFC 310, fans and analysts alike were left to reflect on the night’s events and what they mean for the future of the sport. The event not only provided thrilling entertainment but also set the stage for future matchups and storylines. With Pantoja’s dominant performance, Rakhmonov’s rise, and the ongoing debates surrounding decisions and rankings, UFC 310 served as a fitting conclusion to the 2024 schedule, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the next year will bring.
Looking ahead, the UFC has already begun preparations for its next event, UFC Tampa, which will feature a highly anticipated main event between Joaquin Buckley and Colby Covington. As always, fans can expect comprehensive fight week coverage, with insights, analysis, and predictions from experts and insiders. The community remains a vital part of the UFC experience, fostering connections and conversations among fans, analysts, and fighters. As the sport continues to grow and evolve, events like UFC 310 serve as reminders of the passion, skill, and dedication that define mixed martial arts, captivating audiences worldwide.