Joe Rogan has expressed concern over Alexandre Pantoja’s extended absence from competition following a recent injury. The former flyweight champion suffered an unfortunate setback during his fight at UFC 323, where just 26 seconds into his match with Joshua Vann, Pantoja sustained an arm injury.
The exact cause of the injury remains unclear, but slow-motion footage revealed a severe issue. As Pantoja lost his balance during a takedown attempt, he extended his arm to break the fall, resulting in an apparent elbow dislocation. Replays showed his elbow twisting unnaturally and likely popping out of place upon impact, with Rogan suggesting the injury might be more than a dislocation—possibly a fracture.
This incident ended the fight quickly and raised questions about whether a bout ending due to injury so early should be declared a no contest. The injury occurred at UFC 324, where Pantoja lost his flyweight title under these difficult circumstances.
Fan Take: This injury is a significant blow to the flyweight division and a tough moment for a respected champion like Pantoja. For fight fans, it highlights the unpredictable and often harsh nature of MMA, while also opening up new possibilities and challenges for contenders in the division moving forward.
