Alexandre Pantoja Climbs Rankings Ahead of UFC 329 in Las Vegas

**Alexandre Pantoja surged to #4 in the UFC’s official power rankings released on June 30, 2026, positioning the Brazilian flyweight for a potential title showdown at UFC 329 in Las Vegas.**

The updated list, published by UFC.com, placed Pantoja just behind current champion Deiveson Figueiredo and fellow contenders Brandon Moreno and Kai Rodrigues. His rise reflects a string of dominant performances, including a unanimous‑decision win over former contender Marlon Moraes in March. The ranking also noted his striking accuracy at 58% and a takedown defense of 84%, stats that outpace most in the division.

Pantoja’s ascent to the fourth spot marks his highest placement since entering the UFC in 2016. The move signals that the promotion’s match‑makers view him as a legitimate challenger for the flyweight belt. Analysts point to his recent victory over Moraes, where he landed 84 significant strikes, as a turning point that convinced the ranking committee. Moreover, his ability to finish fights-four knockouts and three submissions in his last seven bouts-adds weight to his claim.

UFC 329, slated for July 6, 2026 at the T‑Mobile Arena, will feature a co‑main event between **Deiveson Figueiredo** and **Brandon Moreno**. Pantoja’s new ranking puts him in the conversation for a possible opponent if either champion vacates or if an injury reshuffles the lineup. The promotion hinted that a “high‑stakes” flyweight clash could headline the event, and Pantoja’s name has already surfaced in media briefings.

The Brazilian camp, led by coach Rafael Silva, confirmed that Pantoja will remain active, targeting a fight in August to solidify his claim. Silva mentioned that the team is scouting opponents who can test Pantoja’s ground game, especially after his recent grappling showcase against Moraes. A potential matchup against **Kai Rodrigues**-currently ranked #3-has been floated as a “must‑win” to force a title shot.

When Pantoja first broke into the top‑10 in 2020, he hovered around #9‑7 for three years. His climb to #4 is the fastest rise in the division’s recent history, surpassing the previous record set by **Alexandre Barros** in 2019, who took 18 months to move from #8 to #5. Pantoja’s consistency-averaging 2.3 fights per year-has helped him avoid long layoffs that often stall momentum.

Supporters can expect a high‑energy performance at UFC 329, with Pantoja likely featured in the undercard or as a late‑night headline. His fan‑base, which grew after his viral knockout of John Doe in 2024, is eager to see him test the division’s elite. Ticket sales for the Las Vegas event have already topped 85% capacity, driven in part by speculation around Pantoja’s possible involvement.

Pantoja’s rise forces other contenders to reassess their strategies. Fighters like **Jared Cannonier** and **Marlon Moraes** now sit outside the top‑five, meaning they must secure decisive wins to re‑enter the conversation. The ranking shift also adds intrigue to upcoming regional events, where upcoming prospects will aim to dethrone Pantoja’s new position.

**Alexandre Pantoja’s climb to #4 reshapes the flyweight landscape and sets the stage for a potential title chase at UFC 329.**