Joshua Van isn't losing any sleep over how he became UFC flyweight champion. After a freak injury ended his December fight against Alexandre Pantoja, Van secured the title in a way nobody expected—but he's not about to apologize for it.

"That is over with," Van told MMA Fighting. "Right now, I'm just focusing on Taira. Like I said, me and Pantoja going to run it back anyways after this fight. I don't think about that no more."

While Van would have preferred a highlight-reel knockout, he's focused on his first title defense against Tatsuo Taira at Saturday's UFC 328 co-main event. It's a quick turnaround for the new champion, but Van isn't complaining. He actually pushed for an earlier return, initially eyeing a February fight date before the UFC offered him two potential opponents: Taira or Manel Kape.

That said, Van isn't dismissing Pantoja's claim to a rematch. The Brazilian was on a dominant run as champion, and Van believes that deserves respect.

"Facts," Van said about Pantoja deserving another shot. "He dominated the division. It's only right they give him the rematch. Yeah, I really hope me and him can run it back."

With Pantoja reportedly cleared to return, the stage is set for an eventual showdown—but first, Van has to get past Taira. For now, the champion's mindset is simple: defend the belt, then settle the score.