Joshua Van reflects on knockout loss that changed his life

Joshua Van has reflected on the third-round knockout loss to Charles Johnson in July 2024—a defeat that marked a pivotal moment in his career arc. Over two years later, Van has transformed from prospect into UFC flyweight champion, winning seven straight fights and capturing the title from Alexandre Pantoja before successfully defending it against Tatsuro Taira.

Speaking to Paramount+, the 24-year-old explained how the loss fundamentally altered his approach to training and discipline. "That loss kind of humbled me in a way," Van said. "So, I never want to taste defeat again. So, my work ethic that I put in the gym is just different from that day on."

Van emphasized that the setback didn't require a complete stylistic overhaul. Instead, he identified specific mistakes made leading into the Johnson bout. "Going into that camp, there's a lot of things that I did that I shouldn't have done," he acknowledged. "But there's no excuse… He beat me fair and square. And it humbled me to become a better fighter."

Van will look to add another trophy to his resume when he faces Pantoja again in the UFC 331 main event on September 19 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The rematch pits the reigning champion against the man he dethroned, offering Pantoja a chance at redemption.