Joshua Van

Fighter Information

Joshua Van Bawi Thawng (born October 10, 2001), is a Burmese and American mixed martial artist currently competing in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he is the first Burmese fighter to sign with the promotion. As of July 1, 2025, he is #1 in the UFC flyweight rankings.
Full Name :
Joshua Van Bawi Thawng
Birthdate :
10 October 2001
Birthplace :
Hakha, Chin State, Myanmar
Height (cm) :
165
Weight (kg) :
57
Residence :
Houston, Texas, USA
Nationality :
American Burmese
Career Started :
2021
Current Team :
4oz. Fight Club
Reach :
165
Active Status :
From - 2021, To - Present
Ring Name :
The Fearless

Biography

Joshua Van is a rising professional mixed martial artist in the UFC Flyweight division. He takes pride in an impressive record of 13 wins and 2 losses, including a recent unanimous decision victory at UFC 316. His path in MMA began at age 19, training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and several martial arts disciplines. Van has proven his versatility with notable achievements, including holding the Fury FC Flyweight Championship. His increasing popularity continues to improve his career prospects, with more insights awaiting revelation.

Early Life

Joshua Van Bawi Thawng, known as “The Fearless,” began his expedition in mixed martial arts at the age of 19 to channel his competitive spirit.

Growing up, he was always driven and sought ways to test his skills. His dedication led him to train rigorously in diverse disciplines, ultimately earning him a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which highlights his grappling proficiency.

Fluent in both Burmese and English, Joshua’s ability to communicate in multiple languages has been an asset as he pursued his professional career in MMA.

Prior to going pro, he competed in amateur bouts, including a notable title fight with Fury FC, where he faced a high-level opponent, further honing his skills and preparing for the challenges ahead.

Family Life

Joshua Van Bawi Thawng has a strong connection to his family, which has greatly influenced his life and career.

He is fluent in both Burmese and English, reflecting the cultural values instilled in him by his family.

Joshua’s competitive nature, likely nurtured by his family environment, has propelled him into the world of martial arts.

Although specific details about his immediate family members are not publicly disclosed, it is clear that their encouragement and support have been essential in shaping his path in MMA.

Career

Joshua Van Bawi Thawng, also known as “The Fearless,” began his professional MMA career in June 2023 and has quickly risen through the ranks of the Flyweight division.

With an impressive record of 13 wins and 2 losses, he has illustrated his versatility in the octagon, achieving victories through 3 TKOs, 1 submission, and 9 decisions.

Remarkably, he held the Fury FC Flyweight Championship prior to joining the UFC. Currently fighting for 4oz. Fight Club, Joshua is ranked #12 in the UFC Flyweight rankings, highlighting his rapid ascent in the competitive landscape.

He is currently on a three-fight winning streak, with his latest victory coming by unanimous decision against Rei Tsuruya at UFC 316 on March 8, 2025.

Net Worth

Joshua Van Bawi Thawng, known as “The Fearless,” has an estimated net worth of $750,000 as of 2023.

His wealth stems from his professional MMA career, with earnings from fight purses, performance bonuses, and lucrative sponsorship deals.

In his top five fights, he earned $15,000, $18,000, $12,000, $20,000, and $10,000, respectively.

Joshua’s success in the octagon and his increasing marketability within the MMA community have considerably contributed to his financial growth.