Alexandre Pantoja vs Askar Askarov — Fight recap

Askar Askarov defeated Alexandre Pantoja via unanimous decision after three rounds on July 18, 2020, in a flyweight matchup that showcased contrasting approaches to cage control. Askarov's striking efficiency proved decisive, landing 41 of 63 significant strikes (65%) compared to Pantoja's 32 of 62 (51%), while dominating control time with 5:11 to Pantoja's 2:17.

Though Pantoja converted one of two takedown attempts (50%), Askarov's superior output and positional dominance—particularly his 31 head strikes—allowed him to weather the limited grappling threat and secure all three rounds on the judges' scorecards. The bout highlighted Askarov's developing striking arsenal as he continued building his case among the division's elite contenders.