Summary
Alexandre Pantoja was injured at UFC 323. Photo: UFC Eurasia
Almost a week after Alexandre Pantoja lost his flyweight title (up to 56,7 kg) to Joshua Van in a bizarre manner due to an injury in the first round, the MMA world still seems to be speculating not only about the consequences of the result for the category, but also about the possible reasons behind the defeat of the now former champion, who was attempting his fifth title defense.
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According to Cejudo, who officially retired from MMA after competing at UFC 323 and being defeated by Payton Talbott , the Brazilian suffered a motorcycle accident in the past, and this may have been the first major injury to his arm.
“This belt will change hands many times, mainly because of all the injuries that have happened. I know that Pantoja had a motorcycle accident – I think it’s the same one that caused the problem with his elbow, I believe, some time ago. As far as I know, I’ve known him since 2016,” said Triple C.
Henry Cejudo reveals Alexandre Pantoja has been dealing with the same elbow issue since a motorcycle accident years ago
“This belt will change hands a lot, especially because of this whole injury that happened. I know Pantoja had a motorcycle accident – I think it's the… pic.twitter.com/buAwtTwV4M
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) December 11, 2025
Cejudo was Pantoja's coach.
Henry Cejudo during his performance at UFC 298. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter
When mentioning that he has known Pantoja since 2016, Cejudo is referring to the beginning of the Brazilian's journey in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). That year, Triple C and Joseph Benavidez were the coaches for the 24th season of The Ultimate Fighter, in which the winner would become the challenger for Demetrious Johnson's title . On that occasion, the Brazilian ended up being part of the Olympic champion's team and lost to the Japanese fighter Hiromasa Ougikubo in the semifinals.
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