Overview
- Alexandre Pantoja lost the flyweight title to Joshua Van at UFC 323 after a fight-ending elbow injury just 26 seconds into the bout.
- His coach clarified the damage is to the elbow, not the shoulder, with the team awaiting specialist guidance on whether surgery is needed.
- The UFC has signaled interest in an immediate rematch if Pantoja’s recovery window is reasonable, with alternative title plans under consideration if he is sidelined longer.
- Pantoja shared video of guarded gym work a week after the injury, suggesting an active recovery but without medical clearance for a return.
- New champion Joshua Van says he wants to defend the belt in February and is open to a rematch with Pantoja when feasible.