In a testament to his resilience and dedication, former UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja has made a remarkable return to full training, just four weeks after sustaining a hand injury during his title fight against Joshua Van. The Brazilian fighter, known for his relentless work ethic, has resumed sparring, signaling his intent to make a swift comeback to the Octagon.
The injury occurred during the co-main event of UFC 323, which took place in Las Vegas last December. Pantoja, who boasts an impressive record of 30 wins and six defeats, was forced to withdraw from the fight due to the injury, handing Van a technical knockout victory. Despite this setback, Pantoja’s recent progress in the gym is a clear indication of his determination to bounce back stronger.
Pantoja’s return to sparring comes as no surprise to those familiar with his career. The Brazilian has consistently demonstrated an ability to overcome adversity, a trait that has endeared him to fans worldwide. His return to full training is not only a personal triumph but also a significant development for the UFC flyweight division, which is eagerly awaiting his comeback.
As Pantoja continues his journey back to the top, all eyes will be on him to see how he performs in his next Octagon outing. His resilience and determination are qualities that have defined his career, and they will undoubtedly serve him well as he aims to reclaim the title he once held.
In other news, UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has released a statement addressing a misleading headline about his personal situation. The champion took to social media to set the record straight, clarifying the situation and expressing his disappointment with the inaccurate reporting. Topuria, who has been on an incredible run in the UFC, recently became the first fighter to stop Max Holloway with strikes at UFC 307, retaining his title in what was his lone defense to date.
Meanwhile, reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has confirmed his relationship with American fighter Tracy Cortez. The pair celebrated the New Year together, sharing a joint photo on social media to mark the occasion. Pereira last appeared in the Octagon against Magomed Ankalaev in October 2025 at UFC 320, winning the fight via first-round technical knockout to reclaim the UFC light heavyweight title. His professional record stands at 13 wins and three losses. Cortez last fought Erin Blanchfield in November 2025 at UFC 322, losing via second-round submission. She has 12 wins and three losses in her professional career.
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