Demetrious Johnson Dismisses Alexandre Pantoja’s Callout

Demetrious Johnson (left), Alexandre Pantoja (right)

Former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson has firmly shut the door on a return to the octagon, even after being called out by reigning champion Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 310. Following his dominant win over Kai Asakura, Pantoja took the microphone to challenge Johnson, declaring,

“I’m the GOAT here. If you want to prove you’re the GOAT, come back.” Johnson, however, had a definitive response: “My Black ass ain’t coming out of retirement.”

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Johnson explained his decision.

“Why would I do that? The bank account is sitting nice and good—38 years old, 11 consecutive title defenses. The champ ain’t coming back.” Johnson, who retired in September after reflecting for over a year, expressed no interest in reversing his decision.

Johnson also acknowledged Pantoja’s achievements, calling him “an amazing athlete” and commending him on his third successful title defense. He recognized Pantoja as one of the best flyweights today, alongside fighters like Adriano Moraes and Kyoji Horiguchi, but made it clear that he no longer considers himself part of that conversation.

“I am not the best flyweight in the world anymore. My Black ass is retired and I’m happily retired,” Johnson stated emphatically.

He dismissed the idea of following in the footsteps of fighters like Jose Aldo or Donald Cerrone, who returned to action after retirement.

 “What am I going to prove when I come back to f*cking fight?”

Not even the allure of a $2 million payday could tempt Johnson back. “I’ve been offered 2 million dollars to come and do one fight,” he revealed. “What do you guys think I said? I said no.”

For Johnson, retirement is about building a legacy beyond fighting. He now focuses on family, a thriving YouTube channel, and other ventures.

“What I thought was more badass than being the best fighter in the world, I think it’s more badass to build an empire,” Johnson explained.

Rather than rely on fighting for income, Johnson is forging a new path, proving his success outside the cage and inspiring others to do the same.