sportsReported

Van Retains UFC Flyweight Title, Tsarukyan Emerges as Top Lightweight Contender at UFC 331

ESPN reports Joshua Van successfully defended his title in a rematch with Alexandre Pantoja while Arman Tsarukyan strengthened his case for a lightweight title shot on a card described as a contender for fight of the year.

Nov 15, 2025, 12:00 AM · 1 min read · language: en

Joshua Van retained his UFC flyweight championship in a rematch against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 331, according to a report from ESPN.

The same report said Arman Tsarukyan secured a significant win that positioned him as the top contender in the lightweight division.

ESPN described the event as one that could be considered for fight card of the year, citing the performances of Van and Tsarukyan as highlights of the night.

Further details on the specific methods of victory, fight statistics, and other bouts on the card were not included in the available report.

ESPN's coverage indicated that both results carry implications for their respective divisions, with Van's title defense reinforcing his position at flyweight and Tsarukyan's win elevating his standing among lightweight contenders.

Arman Tsarukyan Joshua Van Mma Ufc

Sources

Results: Van retains title; Tsarukyan becomes top lightweight contender — ESPN

EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.

sportsReported

ESPN Analysis Raises Question: Is This MMA's Greatest Lightweight Era?

Following UFC 331, ESPN highlighted standout performances from Arman Tsarukyan and Joshua Van as part of a broader look at the state of the lightweight division.

Sep 20, 2026, 8:10 AM · 1 min read