Alexandre Pantoja Seeks Title Revenge Against Joshua Van

Alexandre Pantoja gets his shot at redemption and the UFC flyweight title on September 19. The Brazilian former champion rematches Joshua Van in the main event of UFC 331 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, aiming to avenge a loss that ended in injury just eight months ago.

Can Pantoja 2.0 Reclaim the Flyweight Throne?

Pantoja's camp is buzzing with confidence ahead of the high-stakes rematch. His American Top Team strength and conditioning coach, Everton Oliveira, told Sherdog that the fighter's recovery from the arm injury suffered at UFC 323 was remarkable. Oliveira said Pantoja did not need surgery and was in physical therapy the following week.

He believes the time off has created a more motivated and dangerous fighter. Oliveira stated that Pantoja was in the best form of his career before the injury and that this extended break has only amplified his drive. The coach is excited to see what he calls a "Pantoja 2.0 turbo" version step into the Octagon.

How Have the Betting Odds Moved for UFC 331?

The financial markets reflect a fight that is incredibly difficult to call. When betting lines for UFC 331 first opened, Pantoja was installed as a solid favorite at -200.

Significant money has since come in on the champion, Joshua Van. The line has moved dramatically to make the contest essentially a coin flip. As of late August, Van is now a very slight favorite at -107, with Pantoja close behind at -113. This sharp movement indicates that professional bettors see Van's chances as much better than the initial odds suggested.

The co-main event also features a consequential lightweight bout between Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy, which could determine the next challenger for Justin Gaethje.

What Role Did Pantoja's Wife Play in His Career?

Behind the scenes, Pantoja's journey to this title shot was supported through significant personal hardship. A separate report highlights the role of his wife, Gabryella, in helping him survive financial struggles before finding success in the UFC. While the article's full details are not provided in the source snippet, it shows the personal sacrifices and support system that have been part of Pantoja's path to the top of the sport.

• Title Shot: Alexandre Pantoja rematches Joshua Van for the UFC flyweight championship at UFC 331 on September 19 in Los Angeles.
• Injury Recovery: Coach Everton Oliveira says Pantoja recovered fully from a serious arm injury without surgery and could have fought by May 2026.
• Betting Shift: Pantoja opened as a -200 favorite, but the fight is now a near pick 'em, with Van at -107 and Pantoja at -113.
• Personal Support: Pantoja's wife, Gabryella, was instrumental in supporting him through financial difficulties prior to his UFC breakthrough.

The stage is set for a dramatic night in Los Angeles. Pantoja has the chance to rewrite the story of his first fight with Van, where an injury halted his title reign in the opening minute. With his coach touting an improved version and the betting public seeing it as anyone's fight, the pressure is on for both men to deliver.