Alexandre Pantoja has already made his mark on the UFC’s flyweight division. Dethroning a champion like Brandon Moreno, Pantoja received a lot of praise for his feat. However, not a lot of people were aware of the bigger battles he was fighting behind the scenes.
Previously, “The Cannibal” claimed the undisputed flyweight title at UFC 290. In what was an extremely emotional moment for the fighter, he had an unexpected message for his estranged father. “I leave everything I have. My mum, take care of me and my two brothers alone. You know, now Dad, are you proud of me Dad? You proud of me?“ Notably, it was a moment that stood out for fans who were curious to know the whole story.
Soon thereafter, Pantoja delved into the situation speaking on The MMA Hour. Trying to keep things concise, the Brazilian revealed how his father had drinking problems when he was just a child. Eventually, things got to a point where Pantoja’s mother had to single-handedly take care of him, his brother, and his sister. Not only was his father not around, Pantoja also revealed that his father refused to provide for the family financially.
Despite the situation, Alexandre does not harbor any disdain for his father. Speaking in the interview, it was quite evident that the fighter still had space in his heart for his father who abandoned him. As he reiterates a few times, Alexandre feels that his father ‘did the best he could do.‘ Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough, and living with his father was not the right choice. Thus, Alexandre does not hold it against him and only wishes for his love.
Alexandre Pantoja reveals he had to work as an Uber Eats driver
A rather heart-filling story about the fighter, it was still only one of his big battles. Following the win against Brandon Moreno at UFC 290, Pantoja reveals further struggles that he faced despite being a UFC fighter. According to the Brazilian, he had to work as an Uber Eats driver for a long time, whilst pursuing his career as a fighter.
As it turns out, Alexandre wanted nothing but the best for his family. Living with his wife Gabryella and two sons, the flyweight champ wanted his family to shift to the United States with him. However, it was a big task and one that required serious resources. Having put in the money for the down payment of a house, Pantoja and his wife had to look for means of generating more income.
Thus, the fighter took up work as an Uber Eats driver whilst his wife cleaned houses. Speaking to MMA Junkie, he said, “This like, ‘Oh my God, he’s a UFC fighter and he’s working for UberEats.’ This is life. What are you talking about? I’m not trying to put some bad thing for UFC. I love UFC. They take care of all the fighters.” As such, Pantoja clarified that his situation was not due to the UFC paying him less but due to the cost of living and training out of Coconut Creek, Florida.
Ahead of his fight against Brandon Royval in 2021, Alexandre Pantoja recalls making $100 from his work as an Uber Eats driver. Following a submission win in Round 2, the 33-year-old was awarded a $50,000 bonus which allowed him to finally quit his job. Despite hardships, the Brazilian champion continues to work, and he is now enjoying the fruits of his labor.