Pantoja Seeks Redemption at UFC 331
Pantoja feels overlooked after first championship run, ready to prove himself in UFC 331 rematch
The update
Former UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja is set to face Joshua Van in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 331 this Saturday. Pantoja, who lost his title in just 26 seconds due to a dislocated elbow in their first meeting, has been training since the injury and feels he didn’t receive proper recognition for his previous championship accomplishments.
Why it matters
This rematch carries significant weight for Pantoja, who believes he was dropped from the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings too quickly despite previously reaching No. 4. The Brazilian fighter has maintained that his first championship run, which included four title defenses over two years, deserves more respect. With Van now holding the belt, Pantoja sees this as his opportunity to reclaim his title and validate his place among the sport’s elite.
What to watch
Will Pantoja’s recovery from his elbow injury affect his performance? How has his training approach changed since the loss? Can he regain the form that made him one of the most decorated champions in UFC history?
Sources
- cbssports.com — Details on Pantoja's feelings about his championship run and recovery
- MMA Junkie — Coverage of the final faceoff before UFC 331
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