Kai Kara-France chases UFC Gold and cultural glory at UFC 317

After defeating Australia’s Steve Erceg at UFC 305 in Perth, Kai “Don’t Blink” Kara-France is charging back into the octagon - this time, with UFC gold in sight.

The New Zealander will take on reigning champion Alexandre Pantoja this Sunday at UFC 317, as the co-main event for the Undisputed Flyweight title.

But for Kara-France, this title fight isn’t just about becoming the second UFC champion ever from New Zealand. It’s about something far deeper: mana - a sacred concept in Māori culture representing prestige, spiritual power, and honour.

“Everything I’m doing in combat stuff, I’m bringing culture with me,” Kara-France told UFC Australia’s Instagram.

“If I don’t do it, who else is gonna do it?

“There’s no better time now than a Māori athlete putting all the spotlight on me and my culture.

“I’m not chasing a title, I’m chasing mana.”

Kai Kara-France is chasing recognition and pride not just for himself, but for the entire Māori community. In a sport often dominated by self-glory, his mission stands out - honouring his heritage.

This bout also marks a continuation of unfinished business. Kara-France and Pantoja first crossed paths nearly a decade ago on The Ultimate Fighter: Season 24. Back then, Pantoja used his grappling dominance to smother “Don’t Blink”, securing a win despite some success from Kara-France on the feet.

But make no mistake, this is not the same fighter Pantoja faced nine years ago.

Since then, both have evolved into elite flyweights: Pantoja rides a 7-fight win streak and aims for his 4th title defence, while Kara-France has established himself as probably the most dangerous knockout artist in the division.

To walk away as champion, Kara-France will need to execute a near-perfect game plan. See his 3 critical paths to victory below:

Kai Kara-France’s Keys to Victory

1 - Use your power
Kara-France carries rare, fight-ending power at flyweight - 3 of his last 4 victories have come via Round 1 KO/TKO. His ability to blitz in with sharp, explosive combinations is his deadliest weapon. Pantoja has a granite chin, but even the toughest fall when consistently smashed in the head. If Kara-France can keep landing with intent early, he might just shock the world.

2 - Don’t get discouraged
Let’s be honest, Pantoja’s wrestling and ground game is a class above the New Zealanders. While Kara-France has excellent takedown defence, it is inevitable that Pantoja will land a takedown at some point in the fight. When this happens, it is crucial that Kara-France remains composed to deny any submission attempts and find his way back to the feet. In their first bout, Kara-France was able to repeatedly stand up after being taken down - he’ll need to repeat that resilience, stay calm, and avoid letting frustration drain his focus.

3 - Avoid gassing out
One of Pantoja’s greatest strengths is his cardio. He’s relentless for all 5 rounds, often finding a second wind when his opponents start to fade. Kara-France has only gone 5 rounds once in his UFC career, and while he looked sharp in the later rounds, his ability to fend off takedowns faded. Managing energy early and pacing himself could be the difference between glory and heartbreak.

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Underdog status might sit next to his name, but don’t let that fool you - Kai Kara-France has all the tools to leave UFC 317 with gold around his waist. With both Australia and New Zealand behind him and mana in his heart, he enters the cage with more than just skill - he enters with a purpose.

For New Zealand, for Māori pride, and for legacy, Kai Kara-France is ready.

This Sunday, when that cage door shuts, don’t blink. Because “Don’t Blink” might just make history.

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Written by: Connor Scanlon

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