MMA math never works. Kai France almost killed Erceg with one punch, but Kai got choked out by Pantoja within 3 rounds. Every fights different and styles make fights.
Erceg was able to do a good job with Pantoja simply cuz he has good tdd and is a Bjj blackbelt. He also did well with him on the feet. If Pantoja cannot implement his grappling on someone he’s going to struggle cuz he only has serviceable striking really.
Vans a blue belt, maybe purple now and he’s not going to put up the same resistance on the mat. Pantoja takes everyone down, long term blackbelt, covers up well and is very durable. He’s not going to play around for long with Van in the stand up. He’s relentless in getting those takedowns and control before he takes something.
Taira was hurt badly and it took him a while to get his head back in the game before he even shot in for a takedown. He has poor defence with his hands whereas Pantoja doesent. It’s laughable to suggest that Taira has a better chin than Pantoja. He was visibly hurt against Edgar Chavez and Royval as well as Van too. Honestly, I’ve never seen Pantoja hurt to the head once like you think you have, 36 fights and never been dropped, let alone ktfo and I doubt Van can do it but stranger things have happened. Not even sure Taira has better cardio than him either. It always looks as though he’s tired but he always seems to keep up the pace for 5 rounds.
Let’s see if Pantojas lost a step due to his age, injury and that could easily be a possibility.
