Alexandre Pantoja Warns Joshua Van Ahead of UFC 331 Rematch: "We'll See If You're the True Champion"
Alexandre Pantoja has issued a stark warning to Joshua Van before their UFC 331 rematch. Their first bout in December at UFC 323 concluded in just 26 seconds due to an arm injury sustained by Pantoja. This premature ending halted Pantoja's title defense and his reign.
Despite the first fight's outcome, Pantoja aims for a decisive victory at UFC 331, seeing it as an opportunity to reclaim his flyweight championship. He anticipates finishing Van in a clean contest, free from the injury that marred their initial encounter.
"Joshua Van has a distinct fighting style; he’s a perfect fit for this new generation. But I’m an old-school fighter; I’ve been competing for nearly 20 years," Pantoja stated on UFC 331 Countdown. "That’s a significant advantage. I'm well-rounded and possess multiple paths to victory. My focus is solely on winning back this world title. 'The Cannibal' is prepared to defeat Joshua Van decisively."
Pantoja's warning is direct: he intends to "eat Van alive" to regain his flyweight belt. He also suggested the UFC 331 bout will determine if Van is a genuine champion or if his previous win was solely due to Pantoja's injury.
"Joshua Van, you are skilled, you are the world champion, the best. But on September 19, when the Octagon doors close, we will discover if you are truly the world champion," Pantoja added.
A victory for Pantoja would further solidify his status among the greatest flyweights in history. However, overcoming Van, who holds a 17-2 record and is on a seven-fight winning streak, will be a significant challenge.
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