Joshua Van didn’t wish to earn a world title the best way he did at UFC 323, however he has some fiery phrases for the critics.
Van entered T-Cell Area in Las Vegas on Saturday with hopes of defeating Alexandre Pantoja to turn into a UFC champion for the primary time in his younger MMA profession. The 24-year-old entered the struggle with a ton of momentum off his unanimous determination win over Brandon Royval.
Because it turned out, Van defeated Pantoja in 26 seconds, nevertheless it wasn’t because of a spectacular displaying. As a substitute, Pantoja suffered a nasty shoulder damage that shortly put an finish to the struggle. Because of this, Van was awarded the TKO victory.
In the course of the UFC 323 post-fight press convention, Van went off on those that goal him over their frustration with how issues performed out (h/t MMAJunkie).
“F*ck them,” Van mentioned. “In case you do good, they’ll discuss sh*t, and should you do dangerous, they’ll discuss sh*t, so do what makes you cheerful. It don’t matter what they assume, I received.”
Nonetheless, Van didn’t need his win to be marred by such circumstances. He’s prepared to offer Pantoja a rematch to make issues proper.
“As quickly as he’s recovered, I wish to run it again as a result of I respect him a lot,” Van mentioned. “He’s one of many best of all time, and issues like that, so I do wish to run again with him.”
The issue is, Pantoja isn’t anticipated to be cleared to struggle once more anytime quickly. UFC CEO Dana White mentioned that whereas he isn’t a health care provider, it’s simple to see why the now former UFC Flyweight Champion could not been seen contained in the Octagon for fairly some time.
Fortunately for the UFC brass, a brand new flyweight contender has emerged. Tatsuro Taira scored a TKO end over Brandon Moreno on Saturday. Whereas the stoppage was controversial, one can’t deny the joy Taira brings. Many consider Taira matches Van’s eye-catching combating fashion, which may make for a memorable title struggle if the matchup is booked.
