Joshua Van has a simple message for former flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja: start drinking milk.
Fresh off his dominant fifth-round knockout victory over Tatsuro Taira in the UFC 328 co-main event, the 24-year-old champion is already looking ahead to a potential rematch with Pantoja. Their first meeting at UFC 323 ended abruptly after just 26 seconds when Pantoja suffered a freak arm injury during a takedown attempt, leaving fans and fighters alike wanting more.
“Yes, you better go get some milk, man,” Van joked during the post-fight press conference, offering some health advice to his former opponent. While Pantoja is expected to receive an immediate title shot upon his return, his recovery timeline remains uncertain.
The win over Taira was a statement performance from Van, showcasing the striking prowess that earned him the belt in the first place. Billed as a clash of the division’s brightest young stars, the fight lived up to the hype with both men trading momentum throughout. Van’s superior stand-up game ultimately proved decisive, cementing his status as a champion who can deliver under pressure.
Despite the bittersweet nature of his title win, Van holds no ill will toward Pantoja—though he’s not thrilled with how the former champion has handled the situation. “I felt bad,” Van admitted. “After I saw his arm on the screen, I walked up to him and said, ‘Sorry.’ He said sorry too. But then three months later, he started doing interviews, talking a lot of trash. I don’t know what’s up with him.”
The young champion added that there’s no personal animosity, noting he shook hands with Pantoja when they crossed paths recently. But make no mistake—when the rematch comes, Van will be ready to prove his victory was no fluke.
