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Joshua Van all smiles during tense faceoff with Alexandre Pantoja ahead of UFC 331

Joshua Van has certainly embraced his role as champion since winning the UFC flyweight title and that hasn’t changed in the days leading up to his rematch against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 331. On Thursday, Van was all smiles as…

By Damon Martin · MMA Fighting

Published: Friday, 18 September 2026 at 1:03 AM

Key Things to Know

Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja had a tense faceoff at the UFC 331 pre-fight press conference.
Van remained smiling and relaxed during the faceoff while Pantoja showed a highly serious demeanor.
The flyweight championship rematch is scheduled to take place on Saturday night at UFC 331.

The Story in 60 Seconds

UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van and challenger Alexandre Pantoja faced off on Thursday ahead of their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 331. During the pre-fight press conference faceoff, Van appeared relaxed and smiling while Pantoja maintained a tense, serious demeanor. UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby stood between the two fighters during the encounter.

The upcoming bout on Saturday night is a rematch after Van previously took the flyweight title from Pantoja, ending Pantoja's pursuit of Demetrious Johnson's title defense record. Pantoja aims to reclaim the belt, while Van plans to solidify his legacy with another victory.

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Joshua Van all smiles during tense faceoff with Alexandre Pantoja ahead of UFC 331

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