UFC Flyweight Champion Alexandre Pantoja is preparing for a highly anticipated rematch against Joshua Van at UFC 331 in Los Angeles. This event marks Pantoja's return to the octagon since his TKO loss to Van at UFC 323, where an elbow injury forced him to relinquish his title. Van, having only two career defeats, is eager to defend his championship. The main event, part of a five-bout main card, is scheduled for September 19, 2026, with the main fight expected around 11 p.m. ET, available for streaming on Paramount+.
The Road to Rematch: Pantoja's Quest for Redemption
Alexandre Pantoja, a seasoned flyweight fighter with a 30-6 record, is set to face Joshua Van in a pivotal rematch at UFC 331. This event is highly anticipated as Pantoja aims to avenge his previous defeat at UFC 323, where he suffered a TKO loss to Van due to a dislocated elbow just 26 seconds into the first round. Before this setback, Pantoja had a dominant run, capturing the flyweight belt in 2023 and successfully defending it four consecutive times. His journey back to the octagon is fueled by a desire to reclaim the title he was forced to surrender under unfortunate circumstances, setting the stage for a compelling championship showdown.
Pantoja's return to the Octagon after a devastating injury at UFC 323 marks a critical moment in his career. His consistent performance before the injury, including winning the flyweight championship and defending it multiple times, highlights his skill and determination. The rematch against Joshua Van is not just about a title, but also about redemption and proving his resilience. Fans and critics alike are eager to see if Pantoja can overcome his previous injury and reclaim his dominant position in the flyweight division. The preparation for this fight will undoubtedly be intense, as both fighters aim to secure their place at the top.
UFC 331: Event Details and Van's Defensive Stance
UFC 331 will take place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The main card, featuring five exciting bouts, is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. ET, with the main event between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja projected to start around 11 p.m. ET. Joshua Van, who turned professional in 2021, has an impressive 17-2 record, with his only two losses coming from a submission to Devon Jackson and a TKO to Charles Johnson. This fight presents an opportunity for Van to solidify his reign as the flyweight champion against a determined former titleholder. Fans can stream the event live on Paramount+.
Joshua Van's career trajectory has been remarkable, ascending rapidly through the flyweight ranks since his professional debut. His previous victory over Pantoja, albeit influenced by Pantoja's injury, demonstrated his ability to capitalize on opportunities and perform under pressure. For Van, defending his title at UFC 331 is crucial to establishing his legitimacy as a champion. The event promises a full night of action, with a comprehensive fight card that includes various weight classes and talented fighters. The main event's start time is subject to the length of preceding bouts, adding to the anticipation and excitement for this high-stakes rematch.
