This Saturday, UFC 331 hits Los Angeles, and the main event is an absolute firecracker: flyweight champ Joshua Van is set to rematch former title holder Alexandre Pantoja. This isn’t just any title fight, though. Their first encounter ended in less than 30 seconds when Pantoja suffered a fluke arm injury, giving Van the TKO win and the belt under deeply unfortunate circumstances. Now, the stage is set for a truly decisive outcome, and you can bet everyone is talking about the predictions.
The Rematch That Has Everyone Divided
It’s wild to think Pantoja is coming into this as an underdog, especially considering his track record. Lyle Fitzsimmons over at B/R is sticking with Pantoja, feeling he was operating at a higher level back in December, and he’s not wrong. Pantoja was on an eight-fight heater before that fluke loss, beating better guys than most give him credit for. Fitzsimmons is calling it for Pantoja by unanimous decision. Adam Kramer echoes that sentiment, finding it “frankly jarring” to see Pantoja as the underdog. He points to Van’s remarkable takedown defense and incredible cardio shown against Tatsuro Taira in May as reasons for his current championship status. But Pantoja is a different beast, someone who can turn punches into takedowns and is always hunting for submissions. Kramer is eyeing a Pantoja win by submission in Round 3.
Van’s Hype Train Rolls On, Plus More Firepower on the Card
Of course, not everyone is betting against the champ. Tom Taylor is riding the Van hype train, especially after that thrilling beatdown of Tatsuro Taira, which really showed Van has hit a new level. Taylor thinks Van’s cardio, striking, and pure firepower are enough to carry him through five rounds, though he’s keeping an eye on Pantoja’s legendary durability at 36 years old. His pick? Van by unanimous decision. So, who do you got in this one? It’s a clash of styles and a true test for both guys. Beyond the main event, the co-main is a lightweight battle featuring Arman Tsarukyan taking on Mauricio Ruffy. Both are top contenders, but an impressive win here could absolutely lock up a title shot for Tsarukyan. We’re also getting a fan-friendly featherweight fight between Patricio “Pitbull” Freire, a former Bellator champ, and “The Korean Superboy” Doo Ho Choi. The main card kicks off with super prospect Gable Steveson in a heavyweight clash against huge underdog Sean Sharaf, plus veteran Alonzo Menifield squaring off with unbeaten prospect Iwo Baraniewski at light heavyweight.
This Saturday is going to be packed with action, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Pantoja reclaim his glory after that wild first fight, or will Van cement his status as the true champ? We’re all gonna be glued to our screens in L.A. to find out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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