UFC 323 Winners Eye Title Fights: Yan and Van’s Next Moves
UPDATE: Championship belts changed hands at UFC 323, sparking immediate discussions about potential rematches and title defenses. The urgency is palpable as new champions Petr Yan and Joshua Van contemplate their next moves just a day after their victories.
The bantamweight division is buzzing with anticipation, particularly for Yan, who faces pressure to defend his title against Merab Dvalishvili. Reports confirm that the UFC must book a trilogy fight, as both fighters are tied at 1-1. Dvalishvili, competing for the fourth time this year, deserves an immediate shot to reclaim the championship. Delays could favor the younger Yan, which many consider unjust.
In the flyweight division, Van’s title defense options are also heating up. Following Alexandre Pantoja‘s injury during their fight, the path is clear for Van to face rising star Tatsuro Taira, who recently defeated former champion Brandon Moreno. This matchup promises to be an electrifying contest, highlighting two of the sport’s most promising talents.
While Dvalishvili is the frontrunner for Yan’s next fight, the specter of Sean O’Malley looms large. Should O’Malley triumph over Song Yadong in January, a title clash with Yan could become a reality. The stakes are high, and the UFC’s decision-making process will be closely watched.
Additionally, the winner of the upcoming fight between Umar Nurmagomedov and Deiveson Figueiredo on January 24, 2025, could further complicate matters. If Nurmagomedov secures a victory, he might be in line for a title shot, putting pressure on Dvalishvili and Yan.
For Van, Taira is not the only potential opponent. If Manel Kape performs well against Brandon Royval in the final main event of 2025, he could also enter the title conversation. Kape’s rapid rise could pave the way for him to challenge Van if he achieves a convincing victory.
In the featherweight landscape, Cory Sandhagen is being considered for a match against Talbott, a fighter who’s rapidly gaining attention. Talbott’s recent win over Henry Cejudo has added to his momentum, making this matchup a thrilling possibility.
Finally, the women’s flyweight division sees Manon Fiorot emerging as a likely contender to face Barber. Barber’s journey has been filled with challenges, but her latest win places her back into title contention. This matchup could prove pivotal for both fighters, as Fiorot looks to solidify her position after a previous loss to champion Valentina Shevchenko.
As the dust settles from UFC 323, fans are left eagerly awaiting official announcements regarding these potential bouts. The implications of these matchups extend beyond the octagon, impacting the careers of these fighters and the future landscape of the UFC. Stay tuned for further developments as the situation evolves.
