Joshua Van became the UFC flyweight champion at UFC 323 — but not in the fashion he dreamed of. His title fight against Alexandre Pantoja ended just 26 seconds in after the champion suffered a severe injury, forcing the bout to be stopped and the belt to change hands immediately. While the moment crowned Van as one of the youngest champions in UFC history, some fans have dismissed the victory, claiming it came without a true fight.
Van made it clear he has no patience for that sentiment. Speaking at the post-fight press conference, the 24-year-old shut down suggestions that he’s not a legitimate champion. “F— them,” he said bluntly. “If you do good, they talk. If you do bad, they talk. So do what makes you happy. I won.”
The message reflects a mindset focused on moving forward rather than defending the circumstances of his victory. Van finishes 2025 with four wins, securing his spot atop the division regardless of debate among fans.
Meanwhile, Pantoja showed nothing but class after the injury. In an Instagram video, he congratulated Van, acknowledging that it was “his destiny” to win the belt that night, while promising to return and reclaim it. His message sets the stage for what could become one of the most anticipated rematches in the division once he recovers.
Van may have his critics, but with the title around his waist and the former champion already hungry for a comeback, his reign — and his resolve — will be tested soon.
