Kai Asakura seeks top-ranked opponent after bantamweight wins

Kai Asakura is pursuing a fight against a top-tier bantamweight contender following consecutive stoppage wins in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. After moving up from the flyweight division, Asakura knocked out Cameron Smotherman and Qileng Aori to build momentum. His UFC career began with two losses, including a failed title bid against Alexandre Pantoja and a defeat to Tim Elliott. Asakura maintains that his initial entry into the promotion as a title challenger suggests he remains a credible threat within the roster. He now anticipates that his recent success will secure him a high-ranked opponent for his next appearance in the Octagon. The former Rizin champion is looking to improve his position in the 135-pound rankings as he settles into the new weight class.

• 12:16 AMSherdog — Kai Asakura makes his case for top-ranked UFC opponent