Joshua Van has established himself as the most effective striker in UFC history, achieving a record-breaking average of 8.20 strikes landed per minute. This milestone was secured following his victory over Edgar Chairez at UFC 306, where Van surpassed even UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall’s previous record of 8.07 strikes per minute. Standing out as one of the most dynamic fighters globally, the Burmese-American competitor continues to impress as he prepares for UFC 317.
How Coaching and Training Fueled Van’s Striking Prowess
Van attributes his striking success to the rigorous training and muscle memory developed under his coaches’ guidance. In a conversation with ESPN MMA ahead of UFC 317, the 23-year-old explained that despite his jiu-jitsu coaches lacking knowledge of striking combinations, their focus on fundamentals like jabs greatly improved his precision. He shared,
“He doesn’t know any combos, so all we did was jab and things like that. So when it comes to fighting, it’s just muscle memory, you know?”
—Joshua Van, Fighter
This dedicated emphasis on technique has allowed Van to maintain his status above other top fighters in the UFC, including Aspinall, by ensuring his strikes are delivered with both speed and accuracy.
Van’s Rapid Fight Schedule and Upcoming Challenge at UFC 317
Known for his activity inside the cage, Joshua Van accepted a short-notice fight against Brandon Royval at UFC 317, stepping in just weeks after his win at UFC 316 over Bruno Silva. He had also previously defeated Rei Tsuruya at UFC 313, showcasing a busy competition calendar. This latest opponent replacement came after Manel Kape suffered a broken foot during training, opening an unexpected opportunity for Van.
With a UFC record of 7 wins and 1 loss so far, Van faces his toughest challenge yet against Royval. A victory in this bout could position the young striker for a future title shot, solidifying his rising stature in the division.
Implications of Van’s Record and Future Prospects
Joshua Van’s historic striking rate not only highlights his technical skill but also underscores his potential to become a leading contender in the UFC. His approach to training and adaptability in accepting fights on short notice demonstrate a resilient and fearless competitor. As he prepares for UFC 317, the anticipation grows around whether Van can continue his momentum and claim a championship opportunity. His record-breaking performance places him among the elite fighters in mixed martial arts today, promising an exciting path forward.