Joshua Van has publicly stated that Alexandre Pantoja will be his next opponent, though he takes issue with some of the Brazilian champion's recent comments. Van expressed confidence that a rematch would settle matters between them. The post suggests this would be a second meeting between the two flyweights. Van believes the rematch will put everything in its proper place. Details on timing and location were not provided in the announcement.
Joshua Van has publicly called out Alexandre Pantoja as his next opponent, with the reigning flyweight champion making clear he has unfinished business with the Brazilian contender.
Van, who carries the nickname "The Fearless," holds a 17-2-0 record and is the current flyweight champion at just 24 years of age. The Myanmar-born fighter out of 4oz. Fight Club is one of the most prolific strikers in the division, landing an extraordinary 8.84 significant strikes per minute at a 56 percent accuracy rate. He fights out of an orthodox stance and stands five-foot-five with a 65-inch reach.
Pantoja, nicknamed "The Cannibal," enters any potential rematch as the number-one ranked flyweight and the fourth-ranked pound-for-pound fighter on the roster. The 36-year-old Brazilian carries a seasoned 30-6-0 record and trains out of American Top Team. At five-foot-five with a 67-inch reach, he matches Van in height but holds a two-inch reach advantage. Pantoja brings a well-rounded game built around pressure, landing 4.36 significant strikes per minute while also averaging 2.8 takedowns and one submission attempt per 15 minutes.
Van stated that he takes exception to recent comments made by Pantoja and expressed confidence that a second meeting between the two would settle matters once and for all. No timeline or location for the bout has been announced.
Why it matters
- Van is the reigning flyweight champion, making this a title fight if confirmed
- Pantoja is ranked first in the division and fourth pound-for-pound, giving the rematch immediate credibility
- The two fighters present contrasting styles — Van's elite striking output versus Pantoja's grappling-heavy approach — setting up a compelling tactical contest
- A second fight would resolve an existing rivalry, with both men already sharing history at 125 pounds
Joshua Van vs Alexandre Pantoja
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