Joshua Van Drops Honest Take on Why Joe Rogan’s Statement is Bothering Him

Joshua Van has proven his worth yet again as he defeated Alexandre Pantoja for the second time. The UFC flyweight star is looking to establish his reign as the new flyweight king. However, despite the recent victory, there is one particular statement about Joe Rogan that is bothering the 24-year-old. 

Van and Pantoja first locked horns at UFC 323 back in December 2025. With Pantoja coming in as a clear favorite, Van shocked the world by knocking out the reigning champion in the first round. However, despite the exceptional performance, Rogan commented that the 24-year-old’s victory was “accidental," and that particular word didn't sit well with the UFC champion. 

Speaking with Ariel Helwani recently, Van stated, “I ain’t even gonna lie, man... It was kind of f***ed up he said that, but much love to Joe Rogan. He's a legend. I don’t really give a f*** what other people say, but Joe Rogan is somebody that I look up to. He doesn’t have to apologize. I just let him know how I feel."

Well, Van might have taken the comments too personally. As he came face to face with Pantoja at UFC 331 again, the flyweight star proved his credibility by going the full five rounds and dominating the former champion thoroughly. 

Daniel Cormier Predicts One Fighter That can Cause Problems for Van

For the time being, Van has shut down his critics. However, to sustain himself as the champion, Van has to continue his good work for a long time into the future. And that might be a problem if the 24-year-old champion’s path crosses with Manel Kape. At least that’s what the former UFC champ-champ Daniel Cormier thinks. 

DC said, “The one area that Manel possesses that most don’t is Manel has the power to knock him out. That’s the difference. Manel can knock him out if he gets the opportunity.”

With a lot of noise coming in, fans will be waiting to see if Van can shut them down with his elite performance.