Van retains UFC flyweight title with dominant display over Pantoja

Joshua Van proved too dominant for challenger Alexandre Pantoja in their UFC 331 rematch, putting on a clinical striking display to retain his flyweight title. The Myanmar native earned a unanimous decision from the judges in Los Angeles, extending his reign as champion.

Van, 24, and Pantoja were meeting for a second time after their previous encounter ended unexpectedly when Pantoja suffered an injury. Tuesday's bout allowed the pair to determine the outcome definitively, with Van clearly the sharper fighter across three rounds.

The bout showcased Van's superior striking technique, as he controlled the pace and distance throughout, frustrating Pantoja's attempts to mount an effective offense. All three judges scored the fight in favour of the champion, reflecting the clear-cut nature of Van's performance.

The victory maintains Van's position atop the flyweight division and provides a decisive conclusion to the rivalry with Pantoja, who held the title previously. Van's dominant display suggests the champion remains the division's elite fighter heading forward.