Alexandre Pantoja (left) before his first fight with Joshua Van (right). Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/
Approaching the long-awaited rematch with Joshua Van , Alexandre Pantoja has a clear objective in mind: to regain the flyweight belt (up to 56,7 kg). In a confrontation marked by controversies, the Brazilian does not seem interested in giving space for the rivalry with the Burmese to become bigger in the media. He spoke about the subject in an interview on the 'Full Send' podcast last Tuesday (15).
According to the Rio native, the provocations from his young opponent won't bother him, just as he doesn't feel inclined to respond to them during the press conference.
“This time it’s going to be a little different from last time. I’m not trying to promote the fight anymore; I’m here to fight. I’m in fight week and I’m not here for the press conference; I’m here for Saturday night. It doesn’t matter what he says. I know people love the press conference and all that, but I put on a show last time. My mind is focused only on Saturday,” he said.
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Alexandre Pantoja says don't expect any trash talk this week with Joshua Van at UFC 331 because he's locked in
“I'm not trying to sell this anymore, I'm here to fight. I'm not here for the press conference, I'm here for Saturday night. My mind is only focused on Saturday” pic.twitter.com/fQI8JetyUr
— FULL SEND MMA (@full_send_mma) September 15, 2026
The first fight had a bizarre and tragic ending for Pantoja.
Alexandre Pantoja was injured at UFC 323. Photo: UFC Eurasia
The first duel between the Brazilian and the Burmese marked Pantoja's fifth title defense, the longest streak since the reign of the legendary Demetrious Johnson . However, the fight ended quickly and unexpectedly. After being taken down following a high kick attempt, "The Cannibal" injured his left arm trying to cushion the fall. As a result, he lost the title in just 26 seconds.
Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.
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