Joshua Van predicts humiliation for Pantoja in UFC rematch: 'I'm going to make him tap out'

Pantoja and Van face off respectfully at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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Joshua Van believes he can deliver an even more brutal finish in his rematch against Alexandre Pantoja . In the main event of UFC 323, held in 2025, the Brazilian was defeated after suffering an elbow injury in the opening seconds of the fight, a result that cost him the flyweight title (up to 56,7 kg).

Now, looking ahead to the rematch, the Burmese fighter envisions an even more dominant scenario and suggests he could surpass the former champion in one of his main areas of expertise.

In an interview with 'The Schmo', Van stated that the public has yet to see his jiu-jitsu game in action. Confident, the fighter guaranteed that he intends to submit Pantoja in their next fight and make him tap out inside the octagon.

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“People haven’t seen my jiu-jitsu yet. In my next fight against Pantoja, I’ll probably submit that sucker… We’ll probably make him tap out,” said Joshua Van.

Watch the moment Alexandre Pantoja was injured at UFC 323.

Ending one of the greatest runs in UFC history like this sucks.

Feel horrible for Alexandre Pantoja . #UFC323

pic.twitter.com/TYMg9tinnY

— Zach “” Schumaker (@ZachSchumaker) December 7, 2025

Joshua Van is the current UFC flyweight champion.

Joshua Van celebrates his victory against Tatsuro Taira at UFC 328. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

PUBLICITY:

Although fans and experts have questioned the merits of the title won by Joshua Van – who inherited the belt after Alexandre Pantoja 's injury – the Burmese fighter gave a convincing answer inside the octagon.

In his title defense against Tatsuro Taira at UFC 328 , Van faced difficulties against the Japanese fighter's strong grappling game. Even so, he showed resilience and relied on his sharp boxing to turn the tide of the fight.

In the fifth round, the champion found the right moment and knocked out his opponent, consolidating his position in the division and silencing some of the critics.

Now, Joshua Van awaits official confirmation of the highly anticipated rematch against Alexandre Pantoja.

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