TLDR
- Joshua Van challenges Alexandre Pantoja for the UFC flyweight title at UFC 323 on December 6 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas
- Van, 24, predicts a knockout within three rounds but is prepared for a full five-round fight
- Van holds a 15-2 record with an 8-1 UFC record and is currently on a five-fight winning streak
- Pantoja, 35, is the reigning champion with a 30-5 record and eight consecutive wins including four title defenses
- Van rejects the old versus young storyline and focuses on skill and preparation for the championship bout
Joshua Van Targets Knockout Against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 323
Joshua Van will challenge Alexandre Pantoja for the UFC flyweight championship at UFC 323 on December 6. The event takes place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Van has made his intentions clear ahead of the title fight. The 24-year-old challenger predicts he will knock out the champion within three rounds.
“I feel like I’m going to knock him out inside three rounds,” Van told MMAjunkie.com. “If not, it’s going to be a war.”
Van recognizes that Pantoja will bring a tough challenge. He is prepared to fight all five rounds if necessary.
The challenger acknowledges that fight plans can change once inside the Octagon. “We can all make game plans and everything but come fight day, it’s completely different,” Van said.
Van enters the fight with a 15-2 record overall. His UFC record stands at 8-1 with his only loss coming against Charles Johnson last year.
Van’s Recent Success
The Myanmar fighter has built momentum with five consecutive victories. His winning streak includes wins over Rei Tsuruya, Bruno Silva and Brandon Royval.
Van’s recent performances have earned him a shot at the flyweight title. He is looking to establish himself as a new star in the division.
The challenger is confident about his preparation for the fight. “I’m well-prepared for everything, man, of what he’s going to bring to the table come fight night,” Van said.
Pantoja’s Championship Resume
Alexandre Pantoja enters the fight as the reigning flyweight champion. The 35-year-old holds a 30-5 record in mixed martial arts.
Pantoja is currently on an eight-fight winning streak. This streak includes four successful title defenses.
The champion is considered one of the top fighters in mixed martial arts. His experience and skills have earned him respect throughout the division.
Van has rejected any old versus young narrative surrounding the fight. He emphasizes that the bout will be decided by skill and preparation rather than age.
The 11-year age gap between the fighters has drawn attention. Some observers believe Pantoja’s experience could provide an advantage while others see Van’s youth and energy as key factors.
Both fighters are completing their training camps ahead of the December 6 event. The flyweight title fight serves as the main event for UFC 323.
