Former champion names favorite for rematch between Pantoja and Joshua Van at UFC 331

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

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Brandon Moreno analyzed the main fight of UFC 331 , which takes place next Saturday (19), in Los Angeles. The rematch between Alexandre Pantoja and Joshua Van , valid for the flyweight belt (up to 56,7 kg), puts two of the main names in the category against each other in a duel surrounded by expectation.

In an interview with Ariel Helwani's YouTube channel, available this Tuesday (15), the former flyweight champion commented on the confrontation and revealed his expectations for the duel. The former rival, despite praising one of the fighters, bet on the other.

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“I love this fight. I think it’s going to be an excellent fight. Pantoja was champion for a reason, but I don’t know, I have a feeling Joshua is going to win,” said Brandon Moreno.

Brandon Moreno has already faced the Brazilian three times.

Alexandre Pantoja (left) and Brandon Moreno (right) at UFC 290. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Moreno's opinion gains even more relevance given the Mexican's history against Pantoja. The two have faced each other three times throughout their careers, and the American Top Team athlete holds the advantage in the head-to-head record.

The first encounter took place in 2016, during both fighters' time on TUF, when Pantoja won by submission (rear-naked choke). Two years later, the rivals met again, this time in the UFC, and the Brazilian once again came out on top, also by unanimous decision.

The third chapter took place in 2023 and was for the flyweight title. On that occasion, Pantoja defeated Moreno by split decision and won the title in that category.

Pantoja's career path in professional MMA.

Pantoja with his UFC belts. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/pantoja_oficial

At 36 years old, Alexandre Pantoja is one of the top names in the UFC and one of the most successful fighters in the flyweight division. A professional since 2007, the Brazilian has a record of 30 wins and six losses, notably with eight knockout victories and 12 submission wins. Pantoja has achieved remarkable victories over Manel Kape , Brandon Moreno , Brandon Royval , Steve Erceg , and Kai Kara France.

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