Joshua Van has responded to recent comments made by Alexandre Pantoja regarding their UFC 328 bout, expressing surprise at the former champion's remarks. Van explained that during the face-offs before UFC 328, he approached Pantoja in a friendly manner to shake hands and ask how he was doing, with Pantoja responding positively. Van was shocked by Pantoja's statements after their fight, where the Brazilian posted videos suggesting Van was lucky and that it was destiny for Van to become champion. Van clarified that he didn't see Pantoja's hand injury during the celebration and only learned about it afterward, at which point he apologized to Pantoja, who also offered his own apologies. Despite these post-fight exchanges, Pantoja has continued to characterize the outcome as fortunate for Van. Van maintains respect for Pantoja as a champion but questions the narrative being pushed about the fight's conclusion.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
