Right, so we’ve got another bloody rematch on our hands because apparently the UFC matchmakers have developed an unhealthy obsession with serving up leftovers. Alexandre Pantoja versus Kai Kara-France for the flyweight title – because why book fresh fights when you can reheat something from nearly a decade ago?

The Cannibal’s Relentless March

Pantoja, bless him, has been absolutely methodical in his title defenses. The Brazilian’s got that nickname ‘The Cannibal’ for good reason – he devours opponents with the enthusiasm of a starving man at a buffet. At 35, he’s still coming forward like a freight train, though one has to wonder if age is finally going to catch up with this relentless pressure cooker.

The man’s record speaks volumes: 29-5 with 11 submission wins and a chin that’s seen some punishment. His transition from wild brawler to calculated counter-striker has been genuinely impressive, even if his defensive lapses still make you wince occasionally.

Kara-France’s City Kickboxing Evolution

On the other side, we’ve got Kai Kara-France, who’s transformed himself under Eugene Bareman’s tutelage at City Kickboxing. The New Zealander’s gone from raw talent to polished striker, though at 32, this feels very much like his last realistic shot at gold. His knockout power is legitimate – the kind that can end conversations mid-sentence.

Kara-France’s footwork and feints have improved dramatically, but here’s the rub: his takedown defense against elite grapplers remains suspect. Against someone like Pantoja, who transitions smoother than a Jaguar gearbox, that could prove fatal.

The Grappling Equation

Pantoja’s ground game is absolutely filthy – the man finds backs like a bloodhound finds scents. His submission arsenal, particularly that rear-naked choke, has ended more than a few fighters. Meanwhile, Kara-France’s habit of tripod-ing when trying to stand up could be disastrous against someone who specializes in back-takes.

It seems everyone is talking of Pantoja as a heavy favorite, and frankly, they’re probably right. The Brazilian’s 3-0 in career rematches, while Kara-France sits at 1-2. Those numbers don’t lie, much as we might want them to.

The Championship Reality Check

Look, Kara-France deserves credit for earning another title shot, but this feels like the UFC feeding Pantoja a familiar meal rather than presenting a genuine threat. The champion’s durability, combined with his evolved striking and world-class grappling, creates a nightmare scenario for most flyweights.

If Pantoja gets this to the ground – and he will – it’s game over. The man’s ground-and-pound is surgical, his transitions are silk-smooth, and his submission timing is absolutely perfect. Kara-France needs to keep this standing and land something devastating early, because the longer this goes, the more it favors the champion.

Expect Pantoja to pressure early, weather what Kara-France throws at him, then drag this to the mat where he can work his magic. A submission victory inside three rounds is our prediction, adding another successful defense to what’s becoming a genuinely impressive title reign. What do you reckon – does Kara-France have the power to sleep Pantoja before the inevitable takedown, or is this just another night at the office for the champion?