Alexandre Pantoja fully healed, ready to reclaim UFC title from Joshua Van

The former UFC flyweight champion is up for the challenge Joshua Van
for the rematch title at UFC 331 September 19 in Los Angeles. Pantoja says he’s fully recovered from the injury he suffered in their first meeting, crediting his mindset during the recovery and rehabilitation process.

Alexandre Pantoja details recovery ahead of Joshua Van’s rematch at UFC 331

Pantoja was a big favorite going into his first match last December. However, the fight ended climactically as the Brazilian suffered an elbow injury while preparing for the pinfall after Van landed a headbutt on him. “The Cannibal” recently revealed that he returned to training just days after his injury and was focusing on his recovery.

“The first 20 minutes after an injury are the worst,” Pantoja said in a recent interview. “But after that, I realized what a chance I have. The second after that, I know I have to recover. I have no time to lose. Two days after the injury, after the fight, I’m back in the gym. I’m going to do physical therapy; I’m going to lift it with just one arm, and that gives me a lot of motivation.”

Despite how their first fight ended, Pantoja recognizes Van as the champion after the latter solidly defended the belt. Tatsuro Taira.

“I like to see him defend the title before we fight because it makes it more real,” added Pantoja. “He’s a world champion now. It’s true.”