Joshua Van to Defend Flyweight Title Against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 331

Joshua Van is set to defend his flyweight title against Alexandre Pantoja on September 19 during UFC 331 in Los Angeles, with the opening odds suggesting a nearly even matchup.

Van previously claimed the title from Pantoja last December when their fight ended abruptly due to an injury Pantoja sustained. Current odds show Van at -115 and Pantoja at -105, indicating a competitive rematch. Van has successfully defended his title since then, achieving a late stoppage victory over Tatsuro Taira and maintaining a seven-fight winning streak.

The co-main event features Arman Tsarukyan facing Mauricio Ruffy in a lightweight bout, with Tsarukyan opening as a significant favorite at -400. Additionally, Tai Tuivasa will attempt to end a seven-fight losing streak against Robelis Despaigne, who is favored at -475. Olympic wrestling gold medalist Gable Steveson will also compete, entering as the largest favorite on the card at -1800 against Sean Sharaf.

UFC 331 will be broadcast live from Crypto.com Arena on Paramount Plus.