UFC 323 Set for December Showdown: Dvalishvili-Yan Rematch and Pantoja-Van Flyweight Title Clash Headline Las Vegas Event.

Las Vegas, NV – The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has announced a compelling fight card for UFC 323, scheduled for December 6th in Las Vegas, featuring two championship bouts and several high-stakes contests. The main event will see a bantamweight championship rematch between reigning titleholder Merab Dvalishvili and former champion Petr Yan, while the co-main event will feature flyweight king Alexandre Pantoja defending his strap against surging contender Joshua Van.

UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the headline attractions on Monday, following Dvalishvili’s request for a swift return to the octagon after his successful title defense at UFC 320. Dvalishvili, known for his relentless pace and dominant wrestling, aims to make history with his upcoming bout against Yan. Should he emerge victorious, Dvalishvili would become the first fighter in UFC history to defend a title four times within a single calendar year. His impressive 2025 campaign has already seen him defeat Umar Nurmagomedov in January, followed by a decisive win over Sean O’Malley in June, and most recently, a robust defense against Cory Sandhagen at UFC 320. These victories have solidified his position as one of the most active and dominant champions on the UFC roster, pushing his professional record to 21-4. Dvalishvili’s aggressive, high-volume style, characterized by constant pressure and a formidable grappling game, has proven challenging for every opponent he has faced. His ability to maintain a grueling pace for five rounds has become a hallmark of his championship reign, consistently wearing down elite competitors.

Speaking on his ambitious schedule, Dvalishvili reportedly stated, "Breaking this record has been a driving force for me this year. To defend the bantamweight title four times in twelve months would be an unprecedented achievement, and I’m ready to cement my legacy against a former champion like Yan."

Petr Yan, with a professional record of 17-5, enters this rematch seeking redemption and the opportunity to reclaim the bantamweight championship he once held. The first encounter between Dvalishvili and Yan in March 2023 ended in a unanimous decision victory for Dvalishvili, a fight where Yan struggled to counter the Georgian’s relentless takedown attempts and suffocating top control. That loss marked Yan’s third consecutive defeat, a challenging period for the former champion that began with his bantamweight title loss to Aljamain Sterling in 2022. Following his initial reign, Yan faced a string of high-level opponents, experiencing close decisions and a disqualification, which temporarily derailed his trajectory. However, Yan has since orchestrated a significant comeback, securing three consecutive victories to battle his way back into title contention. His recent wins have showcased his refined striking, defensive acumen, and improved takedown defense, demonstrating a clear path of resurgence. Yan’s tactical striking, precision boxing, and intelligent counter-punching remain significant threats to any opponent in the division. The former champion’s technical prowess and ability to adapt mid-fight will be crucial in his attempt to nullify Dvalishvili’s pressure.

Related News :

In anticipation of the rematch, Yan reportedly commented, "Our first fight didn’t go my way, but I’ve grown since then. This is my chance to prove I’m still the best bantamweight in the world and take back what’s mine. Merab is tough, but I’ve fixed my mistakes, and December 6th will be different." The rematch is expected to be a clash of styles, with Dvalishvili’s grappling-heavy assault testing Yan’s striking defense and ability to keep the fight standing.

The co-main event will feature a highly anticipated flyweight championship clash between the dominant champion Alexandre Pantoja and the rapidly ascending challenger Joshua Van. Pantoja, with a professional record of 29-5, has established himself as one of the most exciting and formidable champions in the UFC. He is currently riding an impressive eight-fight winning streak, a run that includes five victories in championship bouts. Pantoja captured the flyweight title from Brandon Moreno in July 2023 and has since defended it successfully against top contenders such as Brandon Royval, Steve Erceg, and Kai Kara-France. His fighting style is characterized by aggressive striking, high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and an unyielding will to finish fights. Pantoja’s well-rounded skill set and relentless pressure have made him a formidable force in the 125-pound division, consistently overcoming the division’s elite.

Pantoja, reflecting on his championship reign, reportedly stated, "Every challenger brings a new test, and Joshua Van has earned his shot. But the flyweight belt belongs to me, and I intend to keep it. My experience and championship pedigree will be the difference."

Joshua Van, an emerging talent with a professional record of 13-1, has stormed his way to a title shot with a remarkable five consecutive victories since joining the UFC. His rapid ascent includes two significant wins in June 2025, showcasing his activity and potential. Van’s dynamic striking, speed, and aggressive approach have quickly garnered attention, positioning him as one of the most promising new faces in the flyweight division. His ability to finish opponents and his confident demeanor have propelled him into the championship picture in a remarkably short period. This bout represents a significant step up in competition for Van, providing an opportunity to test his burgeoning skills against an established champion.

Van, expressing his confidence, reportedly commented, "This is the moment I’ve been working for. Pantoja is a great champion, but I’m young, hungry, and I believe I have the tools to dethrone him. I’ve shown I can finish fights quickly, and I’m ready to make history." The co-main event promises an explosive encounter between Pantoja’s championship experience and Van’s youthful exuberance and finishing ability.

Beyond the two title fights, UFC 323 will also feature several other pivotal matchups across various divisions. A compelling bantamweight contest will pit former two-division champion Henry Cejudo against rising prospect Payton Talbott. Cejudo, known as "Triple C" for his Olympic gold medal in wrestling and his simultaneous reigns as UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion, holds a professional record of 17-4. Despite periods of inactivity, Cejudo remains a formidable presence in the bantamweight division, combining elite wrestling with improved striking. His last few outings have been against top contenders, and he seeks to re-establish his championship credentials. Talbott, with a professional record of 9-1, represents the new wave of talent. He has impressed with his aggressive striking and knockout power, earning this high-profile matchup against a UFC legend. This bout serves as a significant litmus test for Talbott’s divisional aspirations, while for Cejudo, it is an opportunity to prove his continued relevance in a competitive division.

In the light heavyweight division, former champion Jan Blachowicz will face Bogdan Guskov. Blachowicz, holding a professional record of 29-10-1, is looking to snap a three-fight winless skid, which includes a draw against Magomed Ankalaev and losses to Alex Pereira and Aleksandar Rakic. Known for his "Polish Power" and robust grappling, Blachowicz aims to return to winning ways and climb back into title contention. His experience and heavy hands remain a threat to anyone in the division. Guskov, with a professional record of 17-3, enters the bout on a four-fight winning streak, showcasing his power and finishing capabilities. This streak has propelled him into a matchup against a former champion, providing an opportunity to significantly elevate his standing in the light heavyweight ranks. For Blachowicz, a victory is crucial to halt his recent slide and retain his position among the division’s elite, while Guskov seeks to capitalize on his momentum and make a statement against a seasoned veteran.

UFC 323 is set to be a landmark event for the promotion as the year draws to a close, featuring a blend of established champions, hungry contenders, and the potential for historic achievements. The outcomes of these high-stakes bouts will significantly impact the championship landscapes of the bantamweight, flyweight, and light heavyweight divisions heading into the new year.