A new contender has emerged for UFC 317 following an injury-related reshuffle on the fight card. This year’s International Fight Week is set to showcase two significant title bouts on June 28. In a highly anticipated main event, Ilia Topuria will face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight championship, while reigning flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja will defend his title for the fourth time against Kai Kara-France.
Recently, the undercard faced a setback when Manel Kape had to withdraw from his fight against top contender Brandon Royval due to an injury. However, the UFC found a replacement over the weekend at UFC 316.
Brandon Royval announced via Instagram that Joshua Van, a promising 23-year-old flyweight who has rapidly become one of the UFC’s most active fighters, will step in for Kape. Van has fought five times in the past eleven months and secured his fourth consecutive victory at UFC 316, where he TKO’d #12-ranked Bruno Silva in the third round. He is set to take on Royval in just three weeks, signaling his eagerness to stay active in the octagon.
Royval expressed enthusiasm for the matchup, acknowledging Van’s rising profile in the flyweight division. He noted that facing such a fierce competitor only heightens the stakes, as both fighters are keen to solidify their positions in the title race.
In the aftermath of Van’s recent victory, UFC CEO Dana White praised his fighting spirit and willingness to compete consistently. He remarked on the rarity and value of a fighter willing to step into the ring frequently, drawing parallels to boxing legends who fought regularly.
With both fighters looking to make a statement on June 28, UFC 317 is shaping up to be an exciting night for fans, underscoring the vibrancy and competitiveness of the flyweight division. This event not only highlights the resilience and adaptability of athletes in the UFC but also the potential for newcomers to rise rapidly in the ranks.
Overall, the upcoming bouts promise to deliver high-stakes action and showcase the talent within the UFC as fighters like Royval and Van aim to carve out their paths to championship glory.