Alexandre Pantoja celebrates his fourth UFC flyweight title defense. Photo: Reproduction X/UFC
Alexandre Pantoja could return to the octagon sooner than you might think. The Brazilian last fought at UFC 323, where he suffered an arm injury just 27 seconds into his fight against Joshua Van . As a result, the Rio native lost his UFC flyweight title (up to 56,7 kg), but he is already working intensely to regain his place in the division.
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In a video posted to his Instagram profile, Alexandre Pantoja appears back in physical training. In the images, the former flyweight champion performs pull-ups with ease, indicating that he has at least partially recovered from his injury.
🇧🇷 Aleksandre Pantoja is already getting ready for his comeback, comfortably doing pull-ups and hitting the pads. 💪
via: Aleksandre Pantoja IG pic.twitter.com/RJXFwpS4WG
— MMA Pros Pick (@MMA_PROS_PICK_) January 17, 2026
How did Alexandre Pantoja's injury happen?
Alexandre Pantoja put his flyweight title on the line in the co-main event of UFC 323, held on December 07th, against Joshua Van . The Brazilian started the fight well and even managed to rock his opponent with a combination of boxing and a high kick. However, after the strike, he tried to put his hand on the ground, ended up injuring his shoulder, and the fight was stopped after only 27 seconds.
Initially, it was speculated that the Brazilian might have suffered a fracture or ligament injury to his shoulder. However, Alexandre Pantoja 's coach , Marcos Parrumpa, assured that the injury was less serious than expected.
Watch the moment Alexandre Pantoja was injured.
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Read More about: Alexandre pantoja, Joshua Van, UFC
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