Joshua Van Scores Stunning KO Over Taira to Defend UFC Flyweight Title

24-year-old champion turns the fight around and finishes Tatsuro Taira in Round 5 at UFC 328 in Newark

Joshua Van secured his first successful defense of the flyweight title after knocking out Tatsuro Taira in the co-main event of UFC 328, held at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

The 24-year-old champion entered the bout with a 16-2 record and, despite being listed as the underdog by bookmakers, he proved why he holds the belt. Taira started stronger, setting the pace in the early rounds with excellent grappling skills and ground control.

However, as the fight progressed, Van began to find his range on the feet and showcased clear superiority in boxing exchanges. The champion landed cleaner combinations, moved more effectively, and gradually wore down the Japanese challenger.

The decisive moment came in the fifth round when Van seized the right opening and finished the fight with a knockout, ending Taira’s hopes of becoming the first Japanese UFC champion in history.

With the victory, Joshua Van further established himself as one of the organization’s rising stars and improved his professional record to 17 wins and 2 losses. For Taira, it marked the second defeat of his career, bringing his record to 18-2.