Van Holds Flyweight Crown at UFC 331 After Unanimous Victory over Pantoja

Joshua Van successfully defended his UFC flyweight championship on Tuesday night, earning a unanimous decision against Brazil’s Raul Pantoja at UFC 331. The judges scored the bout 49‑46, 49‑47 and 50‑45 in Van’s favour, according to Al Jazeera. The win extends the Myanmar‑born fighter’s reign and marks his second title‑defence since capturing the belt earlier this year.

The event, staged at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, featured a stacked card that highlighted the promotion’s push into emerging markets. Van, who made history as the first Myanmar athlete to win a UFC title, entered the octagon with a 12‑2 record. Pantoja, a seasoned contender from Brazil, was looking to claim the belt for the first time. Throughout five rounds, Van utilized his reach and striking accuracy to control distance, while Pantoja sought to close the gap with clinches and leg kicks. The judges’ scores reflected Van’s consistent output and defensive discipline.

The flyweight division, capped at 125 pounds, has grown in popularity since its UFC debut in 2012. Fighters from diverse backgrounds now vie for the title, and Van’s presence underscores the sport’s expanding global footprint. His victory also carries symbolic weight for Myanmar, a nation where combat sports have traditionally been limited by political and economic constraints. Analysts note that Van’s success could inspire a new generation of Burmese martial artists to pursue professional opportunities abroad.

Looking ahead, UFC officials have hinted at potential match‑ups for Van’s next defense, including a possible showdown with former champion Deiveson Figueiredo, who is moving down to flyweight, or a rematch with Pantoja if the Brazilian can rebound in upcoming bouts. The promotion typically schedules title defenses every six to nine months, allowing champions time to recover and promote the next fight.

Van’s performance at UFC 331 reinforces his status as a rising star in mixed‑martial‑arts and adds another chapter to the sport’s narrative of cross‑cultural competition. As the UFC continues to scout talent worldwide, the flyweight division may see further historic moments, with Van positioned at the forefront of that evolution.