Alexandre Pantoja Bio
Alexandre Pantoja Passidomo is a Brazilian professional mixed martial artist born on April 16, 1990, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He competes in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and is the current UFC Flyweight Champion. Pantoja is widely regarded as one of the greatest flyweights in MMA history, holding multiple UFC records in his division. He captured the UFC Flyweight Championship by defeating Brandon Moreno at UFC 290 on July 8, 2023, and has successfully defended the title four times while maintaining an eight-fight win streak.
Early Life and Background
Alexandre Pantoja was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro as the youngest of three children. His mother, Ester Pantoja, was adopted, and Alexandre proudly carries the Pantoja surname throughout his career. His parents separated during his childhood, and he was primarily raised by his mother. Pantoja began training Brazilian jiu-jitsu at age 11 under the influence of his stepfather, Moraes, at the academy of master Osvaldo Alves in Copacabana. At age 12, he moved to Arraial do Cabo, where he started training with peers his own age.
Path to MMA
After his relationship with his stepfather deteriorated, Pantoja moved to Bahia to live with his father, continuing his dedication to jiu-jitsu and teaching the discipline at 15. He won his first state jiu-jitsu title there. Returning to Arraial do Cabo, he discovered muay thai and trained under master Helbert Reis, achieving several victories. Due to limited financial opportunities in muay thai, Pantoja transitioned to mixed martial arts and made his professional debut at 17.
Alexandre Pantoja Career
Early Career (2007–2016)
Pantoja began his MMA career in 2007, competing primarily in Brazil. His early years included building a solid record and gaining experience in regional promotions. He developed a reputation for his grappling skills and finishing ability, setting the foundation for his future success.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Breakthrough (2017–2023)
Alexandre Pantoja made his UFC debut on January 28, 2017, at UFC on Fox 23, defeating Eric Shelton by split decision. He quickly established himself with notable wins over Neil Seery and Brandon Moreno. Despite setbacks such as losses to Dustin Ortiz and Deiveson Figueiredo, Pantoja earned Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night bonuses. He demonstrated resilience and skill, defeating top contenders like Matt Schnell and Alex Perez. On July 8, 2023, at UFC 290, Pantoja won the UFC Flyweight Championship by defeating Brandon Moreno via split decision.
American Top Team Era (2023–Present)
Fighting out of American Top Team in Coconut Creek, Florida, Pantoja has solidified his status as the UFC Flyweight Champion. Since winning the title, he has defended it four times, including victories over Brandon Royval, Steve Erceg, Kai Asakura, and Kai Kara-France. His recent defenses have showcased his submission prowess and strategic fighting style, earning multiple Performance of the Night awards. Pantoja holds UFC Flyweight records for most wins, submissions, and finishes.
Driving Style and Strengths
Alexandre Pantoja is known for his aggressive grappling and submission skills, holding a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He combines technical striking with ground control, excelling in both stand-up and ground phases. His ability to finish fights by submission or knockout makes him a versatile and dangerous competitor. His partnership with American Top Team has enhanced his strategic approach and conditioning.
Notable Events and Milestones
Pantoja’s career milestones include becoming the first male UFC flyweight champion aged 35 or older and maintaining an undefeated record of never being finished in 35 professional fights. His title win at UFC 290 and subsequent successful defenses have cemented his legacy in the flyweight division.
Alexandre Pantoja Career Wins
Alexandre Pantoja has amassed a professional MMA record of 30 wins and 5 losses, with 8 wins by knockout, 12 by submission, and 5 by decision. His finishing ability and consistency have made him a top contender and champion in the flyweight division.
UFC Highlights
Since joining the UFC in 2017, Pantoja has recorded numerous significant victories, including his championship win over Brandon Moreno. His most recent wins have come via submission, demonstrating his grappling dominance. He has earned multiple Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night honors, highlighting his exciting fighting style.
Other Wins & Performances
Prior to the UFC, Pantoja secured regional titles and victories in Brazil, showcasing his early potential. His background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and muay thai contributed to his well-rounded skill set.
Alexandre Pantoja Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Alexandre Pantoja was raised by his mother after his parents separated. His mother’s adoptive family name, Pantoja, is carried with pride. His stepfather introduced him to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, playing a significant role in his early martial arts development.
Personal Life
Pantoja is married and has two sons. After winning the UFC Flyweight Championship, he publicly addressed his father, who had abandoned the family, expressing his pride in his accomplishments. He currently resides in Coconut Creek, Florida, USA.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Alexandre Pantoja continues to dominate the UFC Flyweight division. He successfully defended his title against Kai Kara-France via rear-naked choke submission and is scheduled to defend his championship against Joshua Van at UFC 323 in December. Pantoja remains a top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, demonstrating consistent performance and strategic growth. His partnership with American Top Team and focus on conditioning position him well for continued success in the division.