Alexandre Pantoja's injury may have originated from an accident outside the octagon, says former champion.

Alexandre pantoja He was injured at UFC 323. Photo: UFC Eurasia

Almost a week later Alexandre pantoja lose the flyweight title (up to 56,7 kg) to Joshua Van In a bizarre turn of events, with an injury sustained in the first round, the MMA world still seems to be speculating not only about the consequences of the result for the division, but also about the possible reasons behind the defeat of the now former champion, who was attempting his fifth title defense.

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According to Cejudo, who officially retired from MMA after competing at UFC 323 and being defeated by Payton TalbottHe revealed that the Brazilian had suffered a motorcycle accident in the past, and this may have been the first major injury to his arm.

“This belt will change hands many times, mainly because of all the injuries that have happened. I know that Pantoja had a motorcycle accident – ​​I think it’s the same one that caused the problem with his elbow, I believe, some time ago. As far as I know, I’ve known him since 2016,” said Triple C.

Henry Cejudo product reveals Alexandre pantoja has been dealing with the same elbow issue since a motorcycle accident years ago

"This belt will change hands a lot, especially because of this whole injury that happened. I know Pantoja had a motorcycle accident – ​​I think it's the… pic.twitter.com/buAwtTwV4M

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) December 11, 2025

Cejudo was Pantoja's coach.

Henry Cejudo in presentation at UFC 298. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter

When Cejudo mentions knowing Pantoja since 2016, he's referring to the beginning of the Brazilian's career in the UFC. That year, Triple C and Joseph Benavidez They were the coaches for the 24th season of The Ultimate Fighter, in which the winner would become the challenger for the championship belt. Demetrious JohnsonOn that occasion, the Brazilian ended up being part of the Olympic champion's team and lost to the Japanese Hiromasa Ougikubo in the semifinals.