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UFC 323 closes out 2025 with a flyweight title fight that blends experience, explosiveness and one of the division’s fastest-rising prospects. Reigning champion Alexandre Pantoja will defend his belt against Joshua Van, a dangerous newcomer whose rapid ascent has shaken up the entire division.
This matchup places one of the UFC’s most seasoned champions against a fighter who appears to be growing with every outing. On paper, it is the classic question of experience versus momentum. In reality, it may be one of the most compelling co-main events of the year.
Pantoja’s Reign of Versatility and Control
Since his last loss in 2020, Alexandre Pantoja has become one of the most complete fighters in the UFC. His record tells the full story. He holds 30 wins, with 8 by knockout, 12 by submission and 10 by decision. Few champions can match that level of versatility.
Pantoja enters UFC 323 on an eight-fight win streak, a run that includes victories over some of the division’s best. The peak of that streak came when he dethroned Brandon Moreno in a razor-close split decision win. From that moment, Pantoja embraced the responsibilities of a champion and has defended the belt with confidence and increasing consistency.
The champion’s greatest strength is his ability to adapt. He can pressure, counter, wrestle or scramble. He is dangerous in transitions, patient in scrambles and composed in late rounds. Against an unpredictable opponent like Van, that experience may prove to be the difference.
Joshua Van: The Flyweight Division’s New Disruptor
Joshua Van stormed into title contention far sooner than anyone expected. His most recent performance was a thrilling war with Brandon Royval, where he displayed grit, power and the ability to push through adversity in chaotic exchanges. That win immediately placed him on the shortlist of contenders who could challenge Pantoja.
Van enters UFC 323 with sharp hands, fast footwork and the kind of youthful confidence that makes him dangerous. He thrives in high-tempo fights and can create momentum with short bursts of power.
The question now is whether that blend of talent and momentum is enough. Pantoja is the most well-rounded fighter Van has ever faced, and the champion rarely gives his opponents the openings they need to steal momentum.
Experience vs Momentum: What the Fight May Come Down To
Stylistically, this fight presents a fascinating contrast. Pantoja fights with experience, structure and composure. Van relies on speed, pressure and the willingness to take risks. If the fight becomes chaotic, Van may find moments of success. If Pantoja slows the pace and forces transitions, the champion could control the bout from start to finish.
The key question is whether Van can avoid the ground exchanges where Pantoja thrives. The champion’s grappling remains one of his defining strengths, and Van has not yet faced anyone with that level of skill in scrambles or submission chains.
Nevertheless, Van’s striking and confidence cannot be overlooked. He has the power to hurt opponents early, and if he can keep the fight standing, he may surprise the champion who has defeated nearly every elite flyweight on the roster.
A Co-Main Event Worthy of Closing the Year
UFC 323 ends the year with a matchup that represents two different generations of flyweight contenders. For Alexandre Pantoja, it is another chance to show why he has become one of the most reliable champions in the UFC. For Joshua Van, it is the opportunity to complete a rapid rise and prove he belongs among the elite.
Below, you can watch the UFC 323 Countdown – Pantoja vs Van: