UFC 313 Flyweight Fight: Joshua Van vs. Rei Tsuruya Results
UFC 313 delivered another exciting matchup, this time in the flyweight division, as Joshua Van faced off against the promising Rei Tsuruya. The flyweight division has always been known for its speed, technique, and high-level action, and this fight was no exception. With both fighters eager to make their mark, the bout quickly became one of the most anticipated of the evening.
Joshua Van’s Power vs. Tsuruya’s Speed
Joshua Van entered the octagon with a reputation for his knockout power and aggressive style. He’s a fighter who doesn’t shy away from exchanging heavy blows, and his ability to end fights quickly made him a dangerous threat for anyone in the flyweight division. Fans were excited to see if he could make a statement in this fight and solidify his place as a contender in the UFC’s fast-paced flyweight class.
On the other side, Rei Tsuruya came into this fight with a reputation for his lightning-fast footwork, technical striking, and ability to control the pace of a fight. Known for his precision and ability to outmaneuver his opponents, Tsuruya’s style is one built on skill and speed, rather than power. The matchup between Van’s power and Tsuruya’s speed created a compelling contrast that promised excitement.
Round 1: Van Looks to Control the Pace
The fight kicked off with both men quickly engaging, but it was Van who looked to set the tone early. He used his size and power advantage to press forward, cutting off Tsuruya’s movement and landing some strong strikes. Van landed several clean jabs and hooks, hoping to wear Tsuruya down with his power punches.
The UFC’s recap described Van as the quicker, more polished striker in space. He defended Tsuruya’s takedowns and got back to his feet when Tsuruya did put him on the deck, limiting Tsuruya’s ability to control the fight.
Fight Recap: Van’s Striking and Takedown Defense
The UFC’s recap says Van used his superior striking and athleticism to out-hustle Tsuruya. Van also defended takedowns and got back to his feet when Tsuruya put him on the deck, limiting the Japanese fighter’s control time.
Van’s striking, athleticism, and takedown defense were reflected in the scorecards: all three judges scored the bout 30-27 for Van.
The Decision: Van Wins Unanimously
The bout went the full three rounds. At the final horn, the judges awarded Van a unanimous decision, with all three scorecards reading 30-27.
UFC’s recap credited Van’s superior striking and athleticism for the win and noted that he handed Tsuruya the first loss of his professional career.
The Official Decision: Van Takes the Unanimous Verdict
Joshua Van defeated Rei Tsuruya by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the fight 30-27 for Van. The win marked Van’s third consecutive victory and gave Tsuruya the first loss of his professional career.
What’s Next for Van and Tsuruya?
Tsuruya returned to action with first-round rear-naked-choke submissions of Luis Gurule on May 30 and Kevin Borjas on August 29, 2026. UFC’s Macau scorecards and Shanghai prelim recap document the wins.
Van later captured the UFC flyweight title and defended it with a fifth-round TKO of Tatsuro Taira in May 2026, then beat Alexandre Pantoja by unanimous decision to retain the belt on September 19, 2026. UFC’s UFC 328 scorecards and UFC 331 scorecards record those title defenses.
UFC 313 once again delivered an exciting flyweight battle, with Tsuruya and Van putting on a fight that showcased the fast-paced and technical nature of the division. The UFC’s official scorecards and prelim recap confirm Van’s unanimous decision.
