New York: Alexandre Pantoja’s flyweight title reign came to an abrupt end at UFC 323 after suffering a fight-ending injury during the co-main event in Las Vegas. The exact nature and severity of the injury remain unknown, but the setback allowed Joshua Van to walk away with the 125-pound championship.
Following the event, UFC CEO Dana White indicated that Pantoja’s return is not expected anytime soon, suggesting that Van will likely make at least one title defense before a potential rematch.
“We don’t have a timeframe on how long he’ll be out,” White said at the post-fight press conference. “I’m no doctor, but I don’t see him coming back soon. I think Van will defend the title before Pantoja returns. He’s going to need some time.”
Despite White’s cautious outlook, Pantoja remains optimistic, claiming he will be back “sooner than you think.”
As the division moves forward, rising contender Tatsuro Taira may be first in line for a title shot after earning a somewhat controversial win over former champion Brandon Moreno on the main card. Early odds from BetOnline.ag for a projected early-2026 matchup list Taira as a +115 underdog, with Van favored at -135.
For the eventual Pantoja vs. Van rematch, oddsmakers currently have Pantoja favored at -200, with the new champion sitting at +170.
Van, however, made it clear he is eager to face Pantoja again once the former champion recovers.
“As soon as he’s healthy, I want to run it back,” Van said. “I respect him a lot — he’s one of the greatest ever. Whatever the UFC decides, I’m ready, but I definitely want that rematch.”
