Alexandre Pantoja Returns for Title Rematch as Coach Touts

Alexandre Pantoja is set for a massive title rematch. The former UFC flyweight champion will challenge Joshua Van for the belt in the UFC 331 main event on September 19, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. This fight is a chance for redemption after an injury ended their first bout in just one minute.

Pantoja's Coach Reveals a Turbocharged Comeback

Pantoja's camp is buzzing about his condition. American Top Team strength and conditioning coach Everton Oliveira told Sherdog that the fighter's recovery from a serious arm injury has been remarkable. Pantoja did not need surgery and was in physical therapy the following week. Oliveira believes Pantoja could have returned by May if required. He calls this version of the fighter 'Pantoja 2.0 turbo,' suggesting the time off has only increased his motivation. The coach said Pantoja was in the best phase of his career before the injury and is now even more driven.

The Path Back to the UFC 331 Main Event

The rematch was formally added to the UFC's 2026 schedule. It headlines a numbered pay-per-view event in Los Angeles one week after the Noche UFC card in Glendale. The promotion's schedule confirms the fight is about seeking closure after the injury spoiled their initial flyweight title fight. The co-main event will feature Arman Tsarukyan against Mauricio Ruffy in a key lightweight contest.

A Look at the Supporting Cast for UFC 331

While Pantoja's story is central, the event features other notable fighters. The recent UFC Paris card, which included a promo for UFC 331, saw a stunning debut. Salahdine Parnasse knocked out Dan Hooker in the first round and immediately called out Max Holloway. This result adds context to the lightweight landscape surrounding the UFC 331 co-main. Also, a featherweight title fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Movsar Evloev is set for UFC 333 in October, showing a busy end to the year for the promotion.

The Personal Foundation Behind the Fighter

Long before this title shot, Pantoja's journey was supported by his wife, Gabryella. She helped him survive significant financial struggles before he found success in the UFC. This personal history provides a backdrop to the resilience Pantoja has shown in his career and during his recent injury recovery. It's a story of perseverance that continues as he prepares for the biggest fight of his year.

• Alexandre Pantoja fights Joshua Van for the UFC flyweight title at UFC 331 on September 19, 2026.
• Coach Everton Oliveira says Pantoja recovered amazingly from an arm injury and is more motivated than ever.
• The rematch headlines a Los Angeles pay-per-view, one week after the Noche UFC event in Arizona.