Joshua Van Retains UFC Flyweight Title Against Pantoja at UFC 331

Van's second consecutive title defense cements the 125-pound division's legitimacy and market value in UFC competition; Pantoja's loss (record 30-7) closes a narrative cycle from their injury-shortened December 2025 encounter, affecting rankings and next contender matchups. Fight-of-the-Night bonuses and media positioning indicate measurable investment in flyweight content, signaling UFC's commitment to the division despite historical weight-class volatility. Van's 18-2 record and unbeaten title reign establish him as the undisputed champion; Pantoja's ranking (ESPN #8 pound-for-pound) remains intact despite the loss, affecting future title-shot eligibility.