The Herd with Colin Cowherd Alexandre Pantoja on Joshua Van, Demetrious Johnson GOAT debate, losing in training
Dec 6, 2025
UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja dives into his upcoming title defense against rising star Joshua Van. He praises Van for his impressive skill set and mindset, sharing insights on how he anticipates this being one of his toughest challenges yet. Pantoja reflects on lessons learned from past losses, details his training regimen, and discusses how he separates himself from the competition. The conversation also touches on the GOAT debate in the flyweight division, as Pantoja aims to solidify his legacy alongside Demetrious Johnson.
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Young Challenger Inspires Not Intimidates
- Alexandre Pantoja frames Joshua Van as an inspiring new-generation challenger because he was born in 2000 and rose quickly to a title shot.
- Pantoja views young challengers as motivation rather than threats and respects Van's mindset and confidence.
Seeing The Next Opponent In The Locker Room
- Pantoja recounts watching Kai Kara-France and Joshua Van fight on the same card and realizing Van could be his next opponent.
- He says Van took a short-notice fight then would have a full camp against Pantoja, which makes him expect an improved Van.
Treat The Title Like Motivation
- Respect the grind: Pantoja says he trains constantly and never assumes the belt makes him untouchable.
- He adjusts lifestyle habits like diet and sleep to maintain peak performance as a champion.