UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van has voiced his strong desire for a future rematch with Alexandre Pantoja for the world title. Van is set to defend his championship against Tatsuro Taira at UFC 328, marking his first title defense. This bout follows his victory over Pantoja to claim the championship, a win that was influenced by Pantoja sustaining a significant injury early in their fight.
The possibility of a Joshua Van vs. Alexandre Pantoja rematch has captured the attention of fans. Despite Pantoja’s more extensive career and accumulated ring experience, his skills are considered capable of posing challenges to an opponent like Van.
In a recent interview, Joshua Van explicitly stated his intention to face Pantoja again at a later date. “That is over with,” Van told MMA Fighting. “Right now, I’m just focusing on Taira. Like I said, me and Pantoja going to run it back anyways after this fight. I don’t think about that no more.”
Van acknowledged Pantoja’s claim to a rematch, stating, “Facts. He dominated the division. It’s only right they give him the rematch. Yeah, I really hope me and him can run it back.”
Discussing his recent fight bookings, Van elaborated, “When they first called me for the two weeks’ notice they said Taira or Manel and I said Manel. It didn’t go through. Then for March 7, they said let’s do it and I said yes. Both of them said no, I guess. Now the UFC is like you’re fighting Tatsuro and that’s it.” He added, “I’m definitely going to fight all of these guys anyway. I just want to get whoever. I just chose Manel because he called me out so I wanted to run that but now I’ve got Tatsuro to worry about. After that, whoever the UFC gives me.”
Before any potential rematch, Van must first successfully defend his title against Taira on Saturday night.
