Rising UFC flyweight contender Joshua Van is making waves not just with his fists, but with his bold opinions. In the lead-up to his next big matchup, Van shocked some MMA purists by naming reigning champion Alexandre Pantoja as the greatest flyweight of all time—over long-revered icon Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson. While many fans still revere Johnson’s historic title run, Van’s perspective offers a refreshing look at how greatness can be redefined over time.

Van’s recent win over Brandon Royval at UFC 317 wasn’t just impressive—it was a statement. The five-round war was an instant classic and showcased Van’s relentless pace, creative striking, and composure under fire. Seeing such a performance from the young fighter gives weight to his opinions, especially when they challenge the established narrative. When someone is walking the walk, their talk begins to matter more.

So why does Van put Pantoja above Johnson in the flyweight hierarchy? According to him, it comes down to the caliber of opponents and Pantoja’s ability to evolve with the modern game. While Johnson’s reign between 2012 and 2018 was dominant, some critics have noted that the division lacked depth during his early tenure. By contrast, Pantoja’s climb to the top has involved surviving razor-close wars in a more competitive era, making his championship run seem all the more battle-tested and relevant.

From a stylistic standpoint, Pantoja brings a gritty, pressure-heavy approach paired with elite grappling—traits that resonate with fighters like Van who see value in overcoming adversity and grinding out victories. It’s this ruthless consistency that may be why Van views Pantoja as more emblematic of what a modern flyweight GOAT should look like: well-rounded, durable, and capable of beating the best in a stacked division.

In the end, greatness in MMA isn’t just about who held the belt longest or set the most records—it’s about adapting, thriving under pressure, and beating the highest level of competition. Joshua Van’s view sparks a compelling debate, one that invites fans to rethink what dominance means in an ever-evolving sport. Whether you’re on Team Pantoja or still loyal to Mighty Mouse, one thing is clear: the flyweight division is more exciting than ever.