What happened: UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van has drawn a challenge for a future title bout, per Sports Illustrated. Knockout artist Manel Kape has emerged as a likely opponent following the event at crypto.com Arena.
Why it matters: A matchup against Kape would test the titleholder against one of the division's premier strikers. The rapid emergence of a new contender underscores the competitive density at the top of the 125-pound weight class.
By the numbers: Van advanced his professional record to 18-2-0 by finishing Pantoja at the 5:00 mark of the final round. The win marked another late stoppage for the champion, who previously finished Tatsuro Taira in the fifth round at UFC 328.
What to watch: The promotion has not yet announced a date or venue for the prospective title defense.