Pantoja's rival ignores fans' pessimism and predicts a knockout over the Brazilian at UFC 323

Joshua Van faces Alexandre pantoja on December 6. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

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Scheduled for an unprecedented chance to fight for the flyweight belt (up to 56,7 kg), Joshua Van prepares to try to become the first challenger to steal the throne of Alexandre pantoja at UFC 323 on December 6. At 24 years old, the fighter is riding a five-fight winning streak and promises to become a new champion.

Despite his confidence, the prospect isn't as optimistic in the eyes of many fans and experts, given the Brazilian's dominance in the division. Even aware of the overall situation, Van avoids paying attention to statements that undermine his victory and predicts a violent fight, with a possible knockout outcome in his favor against Pantoja.

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“Either I knock him out in three rounds, or it’s going to be a five-round war. A lot of people say I don’t have a chance. I don’t give a damn about that shit, because in the fight against Brandon royval, they said the same thing. They said I wasn't ready, especially on short notice, things like that, and we know the outcome. I know what I'm capable of, and I think the champion knows what I'm capable of. On fight day, it's going to be completely different," Van told MMA JunkieRadio.

Joshua Van in victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC News

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Heading into his fifth title defense, Pantoja avoids underestimating his opponent's talent. In recent statements, the Brazilian assured that he is focused and ready to "conquer another title." The fighters will face off in the penultimate bout of the event on December 6th at UFC 323, which will take place in Las Vegas, USA.