Johnson backs Van’s title
Charles Johnson declined to discount Joshua Van’s flyweight crown after Alexandre Pantoja left their December meeting with an arm injury, reportedly at UFC 323 in Las Vegas.
Johnson, who previously beat Van, said Van earned the opportunity by stringing together wins that put him in position for a title shot.
Johnson is slated to fight Alex Perez at UFC 324 on Jan. 24 in Las Vegas and says his focus is on finishes and moving toward a title opportunity rather than disputing Van’s championship.
He also noted that Pantoja is expected to return and that the change of events creates openings for contenders, according to sources.
Johnson added he hopes his performance at UFC 324 keeps the spotlight on his own rise instead of another fighter’s downturn.
[Source]
MMA Fighting