Check out MMA expert Adam Catterall's latest tips and predictions for the UFC 331 flyweight title rematch between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja on Saturday night.
Adam Catterall's Joshua Van vs Alexandre Pantoja 2 Tips
Joshua Van to win by Decision or Technical Decision - 10/13
Nearly ten months have passed since Alexandre Pantoja's reign as UFC flyweight champion came to an end in bizarre circumstances at UFC 323.
Pantoja entered the fight having recorded four consecutive title defenses and was the heavy favourite against the young challenger Joshua Van.
When they met inside the Octagon Pantoja suffered a dislocated shoulder after Van pushed him down after catching a kick in the early going, with the Brazilian rendered unable to continue.
Van has subsequently established himself as champion by beating top contender Tatsuro Taira back in May, and MMA expert Adam Catterall claimed that he has what it takes to cement his status as the best fighter in the world at 125lbs this weekend.
"If Joshua Van can deal with what Taira threw at him, I think that he might be able to deal with what Pantoja throws at him on Saturday night." Catterall said on bet365 Cageside.
"That's why I am edging towards the younger man in this particular knock.
"Pantoja is a legend, and under any other circumstances I would probably point you towards him.
"But when you become the champion as Joshua Van has done and when you validate it the way that he did against Tatsuro Taira it gives you an extra five to ten per cent. His chest is out and he's feeling himself.
"He is the real deal, he is next generation of champion and I wouldn't be surprised if he got a late stoppage just with the way that he goes about fighting.
"But I'm going to edge towards a points decision victory for Joshua Van over the full five rounds.
"Pantoja will have his moments, he is the grappler in this particular fight but I just think the defence of Van, getting back to his feet and being able to do what he does in the pocket with those quick, fast exchanges I just think will be a little bit too much for Alexandre Pantoja."
Odds displayed in the above article were correct at time of publishing and are subject to change or withdrawal at any time.
