Joshua Van says Alexandre Pantoja is his next opponent

UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van has publicly called out Alexandre Pantoja as his next opponent, while also taking aim at recent comments made by the Brazilian that the champion found objectionable.

Van, nicknamed "The Fearless," is 24 years old and represents Myanmar under the banner of 4oz. Fight Club. The reigning flyweight champion carries a 17-2-0 record and has established himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in the division, landing an extraordinary 8.84 significant strikes per minute at a 56 percent accuracy rate. Standing five-foot-five with a 65-inch reach, Van operates out of an orthodox stance and has shown an aggressive, high-volume approach throughout his title reign.

Pantoja, 36, is the division's top-ranked contender and sits fourth on the pound-for-pound rankings. The Brazilian trains out of American Top Team and holds a 30-6-0 record built over a lengthy career. Known as "The Cannibal," Pantoja brings a more measured offensive output at 4.36 significant strikes per minute, but compensates with a strong grappling game — averaging 2.8 takedowns and one submission attempt per 15 minutes. He carries a two-inch reach advantage over Van at 67 inches.

Van indicated this meeting would serve as a rematch between the two fighters and has framed it as a contest that will settle their rivalry once and for all. No date or event has been confirmed for the bout.

Why it matters

• Van versus Pantoja would be a rematch, adding personal stakes to the flyweight title picture
• Pantoja's top contender status and pound-for-pound ranking make him the most logical challenger for the belt
• A striking-heavy champion against a grappling-oriented challenger creates a sharp stylistic contrast at 125 pounds
• Van's displeasure with Pantoja's recent comments adds an extra layer of tension to an already significant matchup