Joshua Van delivered a breathtaking performance on Saturday night at UFC 317, securing a likely title shot while also making a strong case for Fight of the Year. Facing Brandon Royval, Van fought on short notice just three weeks after his last bout, emerging victorious after a brutal three-round war that showcased his striking power and resilience.
Back-and-Forth Action Defines Intense Flyweight Clash
Both fighters pressed aggressively throughout the contest, but it was Van who consistently landed harder, more damaging strikes. The fight reached a dramatic crescendo late in round three when Van unleashed a devastating right hook that sent Royval crashing to the canvas. Although Van nearly finished the bout at the final seconds, Royval managed to survive until the horn.
The judges rewarded Van’s effort with scores of 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27, elevating the 23-year-old from Myanmar from prospect status to the division’s top contender. This victory signals a significant step forward for Van as he positions himself to challenge for the flyweight title soon.
Van Reflects on Overcoming Injury and Tough Opposition
Following his win, Van revealed he had fought through a broken right big toe sustained during a previous bout against Bruno Silva. Acknowledging Royval’s toughness, Van said,
“Bruno Silva fight I broke my toe. My right big toe, it was f*cked up,”
before adding,
“We know Royval’s a tough guy. We knew we was in for a war. I wanted to get the finish. Like they say, the Diaz brothers never lost a fight, they just ran out of time so that’s what you see. We always know what we got, it’s just time to show the world. Fight of the Night?”
—Joshua Van, UFC Flyweight Contender
Van Utilizes Reach and Precision to Outstrike Veteran Royval
Despite Royval’s experience as a veteran in the division, Van clearly held the upper hand in striking efficiency. Royval employed his reach advantage with jabs and kicks, chipping away at Van’s defense early. However, each time Royval overcommitted, Van countered with powerful straight punches that landed with significant force.
Van’s right hook became increasingly effective as the fight progressed, frequently finding its mark and making it difficult for Royval to keep his distance. The two flyweights exchanged heavy shots in a continuous battle of wills, with Van’s precision and power threatening Royval throughout the contest.
Momentum Swings Highlight Competitive Second Round
The second round saw Royval press forward even harder, landing his best shots, including a strong straight left and a sharp left-right combination that visibly rattled Van. Despite the damage, Van stayed composed and fired back with heavy counters that disrupted Royval’s momentum.
Powerful exchanges defined the round, as both fighters landed huge punches in a heated back-and-forth. Royval’s volume attack was impressive, but Van’s ability to connect with impactful combinations helped him remain in control heading into the final stanza.
Van’s Final Round Assault Secures Decisive Victory
In the closing round, Van ramped up his output, frequently meeting Royval’s relentless pressure with stiff rights and punishing left hooks. With just seconds remaining, the bout reached a fever pitch as both athletes threw rapid-fire punches, but it was Van’s right hook that floored Royval and nearly ended the fight.
Van continued to strike from the top position during a ground barrage, though Royval survived until the final bell. The victory marked Van’s fifth consecutive win, firmly establishing him as a major contender in the flyweight division and priming him for a showdown with the upcoming title fight winner between Alexandre Pantoja and Kai Kara-France.
Van’s Ambition Signals Upcoming Title Challenge
With the win, Van confidently called for a title opportunity. He stated,
“The winner of the title fight tonight, they gonna have to see me,”
and further added,
“Dana White, if you give me a chance to face off with them, I’m here.”
—Joshua Van, UFC Flyweight Contender
This declaration underscores Van’s readiness to step into the championship spotlight, promising an exciting future matchup for fans of the division and the UFC at large.