Joshua Van Reveals Torn AC Joint Ahead of UFC Title Defense Against Pantoja

Joshua Van successfully defended his Ultimate Fighting Championship flyweight title on Sept. 19 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, defeating former champion Alexandre Pantoja by unanimous decision. However, the reigning champion revealed that he completed his second title defense while dealing with a severe shoulder injury.

Speaking at the post-fight press conference, Van stated that he suffered a torn AC joint in his right shoulder following a pre-fight press conference in Philadelphia in August. The injury severely disrupted his preparation for the rematch, limiting the majority of his training camp to cardio exercises.

"Coming into this fight after the press conference in Philly, I tore my AC joint in my right shoulder," Van explained. "So, the last two weeks was my first time sparring, and this camp we did nothing but cardio. I've got to go back there and get MRIs and get checked up, so hopefully nothing major."

Given the injury, Van is unlikely to return to the Octagon for a third title defense this year. While the champion did not call out any specific contenders after defeating Pantoja, stating he will face whoever the UFC offers next, top-ranked contender Manel Kape, who has finished his last four opponents, appears to be the leading candidate.