What happened
Tatsuro Taira told Ariel Helwani he plans to bring the ground game against Joshua Van in their UFC 328 title fight, while acknowledging Van's strong takedown defense. Taira said he is always hunting for the finish and does not miss small openings.
Why it matters
The flyweight title clash headlines UFC 328 and pits Taira's grappling-heavy approach against Van's takedown defense, a stylistic matchup that will shape how the fight unfolds. Taira has already said he would like a future bout with Alexandre Pantoja if he wins the belt, raising the stakes for the division's title picture.
What to watch
Watch whether Taira can establish takedowns early or is forced to strike with Van. A finish from either fighter would reshape the flyweight title landscape heading into the rest of the 2026 season.
