UFC 317: Brandon Royval vs Joshua Van

At UFC 317 on June 28, 2025, Brandon “Raw Dawg” Royval faced rising star Joshua Van in a high-stakes flyweight bout at the T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada. Originally scheduled to fight Manel Kape, Royval’s opponent was changed on short notice due to Kape’s injury, with Van stepping in to challenge the former title contender.

The fight was an instant classic, showcasing relentless action and heart from both fighters. Royval utilized his unorthodox striking and high-paced offense, while Van demonstrated exceptional boxing and composure under pressure. The bout was a back-and-forth affair, with both men exchanging heavy shots throughout the three rounds. In the final moments of the third round, Van landed a devastating right hook that dropped Royval, nearly securing a finish as time expired.

The judges scored the fight unanimously in favor of Van, with two giving him 29–28 and one scoring it 30–27. This victory not only extended Van’s win streak but also propelled him to the top of the flyweight division, positioning him as a serious contender for the title.

For Royval, the loss was a setback in his quest for another title shot. However, his performance solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the flyweight division. Both fighters received widespread praise for their heart and determination, with many considering the bout a leading candidate for Fight of the Year.