UFC 323: Alexandre Pantoja vs Joshua Van Analysis and Prediction

Alexandre Pantoja returns to defend his position at the top of the flyweight division against rising contender Joshua Van, who has surged into relevance with his fast pace and confidence. This co-main event offers a classic story: experience versus youth, champion-level composure against hungry ambition.

Alexandre Pantoja enters as the more seasoned and battle-tested fighter. His grappling, scrambling ability and fight IQ have carried him through wars with the best athletes the division has ever seen. Pantoja thrives in chaos and has repeatedly shown he can turn difficult moments into fight-winning opportunities.

Joshua Van brings energy, speed and belief. At just 22, he has earned a rapid climb through the rankings with sharp striking, efficient movement and an ability to push pace for all three rounds. Van does not fight like a developing prospect; he fights like someone who believes he belongs among elite flyweights already.

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Tale of the Tape

Category	Alexandre Pantoja	Joshua Van
Record	30-5-0	15-2-0
Height	5’5″	5’5″
Reach	67″	66″
Stance	Orthodox	Switch

Analysis

Van will be fast, unpredictable and fully committed, but Pantoja’s experience in championship-level exchanges gives him a major edge. The champion has survived – and won – far tougher assignments. Van may find early success, yet over time Pantoja’s pressure and grappling layers should wear him down.

When / Where / How to Watch

UFC 323 takes place on Sunday, 7 December in UK: 3:00am GMT The event airs live on UFC Fight Pass and local broadcast partners.

Prediction

Pantoja’s durability and grappling should allow him to pull away in the later rounds.

Alexandre Pantoja wins by late submission