UFC champion apologizes to Alexandre Pantoja and regrets the controversy.

Van backstage at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

In his last fight, held in December in Las Vegas (USA), Joshua Van He experienced a mix of emotions. On the same night that the Burmese fighter became the UFC flyweight champion (up to 57 kg), he also became embroiled in controversy due to an injury. Alexandre pantoja In combat. Aware of the negative repercussions surrounding his behavior in the octagon, the athlete spoke out.

In an interview with ESPN, Van made a point of apologizing to the Brazilian. The unfortunate incident happened just 26 seconds into the fight. After putting his arm on the ground, Pantoja informed the referee that he was unable to continue, losing by technical knockout. Immediately, 'The Fearless', especially his team, celebrated as if they had been superior, a fact that angered fans and MMA professionals.

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In any case, Van, despite his happiness at winning the title, showed concern for the former champion in the octagon. Therefore, the Burmese fighter stressed that he in no way celebrated Pantoja's misfortune, that is, his injury, and lamented that the controversy still exists.

“I feel great to be champion and to represent the flyweight division. I only celebrated the victory, the conquest of the belt. When I looked back at Pantoja, he was still hurt. I went to him and said, 'I'm sorry the fight ended like this.' But at the same time, I was happy to have achieved my dream. It was a mixed feeling, but I want to have a rematch with him. I didn't see his hand when the referee stopped the fight. I thought something had happened and I just celebrated. Then I looked up and saw his arm on the canvas. That's when I went to him and apologized,” said the champion.

Made of Van

Joshua VanThe 24-year-old is the first fighter born in the 2000s and also in Asia to win the UFC belt, becoming the second youngest champion in the company's history. The Burmese fighter began his MMA career in 2021 and debuted in the organization in 2023.

In sports, 'The Fearless' built a record of 16 wins and two losses. His main triumphs were against Alexandre pantoja, Brandon royval, Among others.