Brazilian · Belém, Brazil · Born 16 April 1990Grappling-heavy Brazilian flyweight who won the belt in 2023 and made four defenses before losing to Joshua Van in December 2025.
Alexandre Pantoja Passidomo was born on 16 April 1990 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the youngest of three children; his mother, Ester, was herself adopted as a child after her biological parents could not afford to raise her, an experience that shaped the family's close bond. Pantoja, nicknamed "The Cannibal," turned professional in 2007 and developed into one of the most dominant flyweights in UFC history, training with the Black House team before later joining American Top Team in 2018. Pantoja won the UFC Flyweight Championship in 2023, defeating Brandon Moreno, and went on to defend the title four consecutive times, extending an eight-fight win streak while setting UFC flyweight division records for most wins, most submissions, and most finishes. Pantoja became the first male UFC flyweight champion to win a title fight at 35 or older, and has continued to dominate one of the promotion's most competitive divisions, renowned for his well-rounded grappling and finishing instincts across a UFC career spanning nearly two decades since turning professional.
Former UFC Flyweight Champion, TUF winner
How They Played
Pantoja is known for his exceptional grappling and submission skills rooted in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, combined with dangerous knockout power in his hands. He excels at mixing takedowns with striking, often catching opponents off guard with his ability to finish fights both standing and on the ground.
Lasting Impact
Pantoja helped elevate the profile of the UFC flyweight division during a period when it needed established stars and exciting fighters.
Career Honours
- UFC Flyweight Champion 2023-2025
Brazilian Athletes