For all the clichés in sports, the saying that champions perform 30% better upon winning is a belief firmly exemplified by Alexandre Pantoja, the UFC flyweight champion.

At 35 years old, Pantoja (30-5) is experiencing a remarkable ascent in the pound-for-pound rankings as he prepares for his title defense against Joshua Van (15-2) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. While discussions spotlight the age difference between the two fighters, Pantoja’s comeback story has been captivating.

Once a brawler with strong jiu-jitsu skills, Pantoja proved critics wrong in 2023 by defeating Brandon Moreno in a split decision, gaining the respect of fans and analysts alike. Despite initial doubts about his longevity in the sport, Pantoja has claimed three additional title defenses under his belt, demonstrating his rapid evolution as a fighter.

“I only genuinely believed I could be a UFC champion three or four years ago when I joined American Top Team, the best gym worldwide,” he expressed in a CBS Sports interview. “We have the best athletes and coaches there; it’s like a mecca for MMA.”

Pantoja credits the financial security inherent in being a champion for enabling him to fully commit to training and self-investment, allowing him to improve his well-being and performance.

He recalls struggling to support his family while juggling a side job delivering food. Fast forward two years, and Pantoja appears rejuvenated, separating himself from the competition following impressive finishes in his last two defenses.

In the landscape of today’s MMA champions, Pantoja advocates for recognition alongside Islam Makhachev, Ilia Topuria, and Merab Dvalishvili, expressing his desire to be regarded on par with the best. “This era is extraordinary for fans and fighters,” Pantoja concluded, underscoring the elevated standards set by elite fighters today.