Ex-Champ Pantoja Back Training Post-Arm Break

Alexandre Pantoja, the former UFC flyweight champion, has made a swift return to training less than a month after sustaining a severe arm injury. The fighter was observed participating in strength and conditioning as well as combat sports drills at American Top Team in Florida. This rapid turnaround follows his loss of the flyweight title due to the debilitating injury.

The incident happened during his title defense bout on December 6, 2026, against Joshua Van. A misstep resulted in a hyperextension of Pantoja's left elbow, leading to the stoppage of the fight early in the first round. Experts initially speculated it was a dislocation, highlighting the traumatic nature of the injury.

Despite the setback, Pantoja, who previously vowed to come back stronger, is now actively working towards his return. While his exact timetable for re-entering the octagon is yet to be determined, his immediate return to the gym signals his determination to regain his championship status.