Fri Dec 05 01:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Joshua Van Brushes Off Doubts, Ready to Dethrone Pantoja at UFC 323
Las Vegas, NV – Just months after stunning Brandon Royval in a “Fight of the Year” contender, Joshua “The Vanimal” Van is set to challenge Alexandre Pantoja for the UFC Flyweight Championship at UFC 323 this Saturday. Despite being the underdog and facing the reigning champion with four title defenses under his belt, Van remains unfazed by the pressure and doubters.
The 24-year-old fighter has heard the familiar refrain of “too much, too soon,” similar to the criticism he faced before his upset victory over Royval. However, Van insists he’s ready for the challenge and would have pursued a title shot even earlier if the opportunity arose.
“The same thing they said with the Royval fight – he’s too young, they’re rushing him, this and that,” Van told MMA Fighting. “I want to fight for the belt. I want to fight the champion. I don’t think they’re rushing me.”
While acknowledging Pantoja’s skill and relentless fighting style, Van believes past opponents have given the champion too much respect, leading to their downfall. He plans to avoid this mistake by focusing on his own strengths and unique fighting style.
“When they fought Pantoja, a lot of people give him too much respect,” Van said. “The main thing is just be myself come fight day because nobody fights like Joshua Van.”
Pantoja has been on an impressive eight-fight win streak and is considered one of the best flyweights in UFC history. However, Van is confident he can be the first to defeat the champion in over five years.
When asked about how his life will change if he wins the title Van said, “I’m going to be a whole different Josh. I’m going to wear sunglasses everywhere. I’m going to act like a superstar” before joking “No, I’m playing with you.”
UFC 323 takes place this Saturday in Las Vegas, where Van seeks to prove his readiness and claim the flyweight crown.
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