Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja will settle their score in a flyweight title rematch at UFC 331, featuring a high-stakes return for Arman Tsarukyan.
Key Takeaways
- Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja headline UFC 331 in a flyweight title rematch on Sept 19.
- Arman Tsarukyan makes his highly anticipated return against rising star Mauricio Ruffy.
- The event will take place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
The combat sports world is buzzing following the official announcement of UFC 331. Scheduled for September 19, 2026, in Los Angeles, the event will feature a massive flyweight title rematch between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja at the iconic Crypto.com Arena.
The rivalry stems from their controversial encounter at UFC 323 in December 2025. That bout lasted a mere 26 seconds after Pantoja suffered a freak elbow dislocation, handing the title to the 24-year-old Van. While Van has since defended his belt against Tatsuro Taira, Pantoja has been fighting his way back from rehabilitation to reclaim his throne.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this rematch is critical for the legitimacy of the flyweight division. For Van, it is a chance to prove his first reign wasn't a fluke; for Pantoja, it is about redemption after a career-altering injury.
This rematch isn't just about the belt; it's about resolving the 'what-if' that has loomed over the flyweight division since Pantoja's injury.
Adding to the excitement, the co-main event features the return of Arman Tsarukyan. After a hiatus from the Octagon, Tsarukyan faces the dangerous Mauricio Ruffy, who recently made headlines by knocking out Michael Chandler. This fight is seen as a stepping stone toward a potential title shot against Islam Makhachev.
UFC 331 Full Fight Card Lineup
| Matchup | Weight Class/Type |
|---|---|
| Joshua Van vs Alexandre Pantoja | Main Event (Flyweight Title) |
| Arman Tsarukyan vs Mauricio Ruffy | Co-Main Event (Lightweight) |
| Patricio Pitbull vs Doo-ho Choi | Featured Bout |
Historical Background: Joshua Van made history by becoming one of the youngest champions in UFC history, ending Pantoja's dominant eight-fight win streak. The rematch was inevitable due to the sudden nature of the first encounter's conclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When and where can I watch UFC 331?
The event takes place on September 19, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. It will be broadcast on Paramount+ (US) and UFC Fight Pass worldwide.
2. Who is the favorite to win the main event?
According to betting markets, Pantoja enters as a slight favorite (-120) to reclaim his title.
