Joshua Van defends UFC flyweight title at UFC 331

Joshua Van secured a decision victory over Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 331 to defend his flyweight title. The five-round bout was awarded ‘Fight of the Night’ honors, with UFC CEO Dana White describing it as potentially the greatest fight in the history of the flyweight division.

Former UFC and ONE champion Demetrious Johnson provided a technical analysis of the performance, noting that Van’s boxing stance and composure under pressure make him a candidate to pursue long-term title defense records. Johnson highlighted Van’s ability to maintain striking dominance while managing grappling exchanges.

Following the victory, Dana White expressed surprise at learning the 24-year-old champion’s age. The win also serves as a rebuttal to previous skepticism regarding Van’s championship status, which followed a prior bout where Pantoja was unable to continue due to an arm injury.