UFC 331 Aftermath: High-Stakes Matchups Loom for Big Winners
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Following a card defined by violent knockouts and historic upsets, the UFC faces critical booking decisions for its top contenders.
UFC 331 in Los Angeles delivered a series of definitive results that now leave the promotion with several high-risk booking requirements, according to Sportsnet.
In the main event, flyweight champion Joshua Van successfully defended his title via unanimous decision over Alexandre Pantoja. Sportsnet reports that Van is now slated to face knockout artist Manel Kape, who enters the bout on a four-fight winning streak.
Lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan solidified his position as the No. 1 contender after a first-round knockout of Mauricio Ruffy. Sportsnet notes that Tsarukyan's six-fight win streak makes a clash with lightweight champion Justin Gaethje the only logical next step, with a target date for early 2027 upon Gaethje's return.
The event also featured historic volatility in the heavyweight division. Sean Sharaf secured what Sportsnet describes as the biggest upset in UFC history, knocking out former Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson in 12 seconds while entering as a +1000 underdog. While Sharaf is being eyed for a bout against Robelis Despaigne, Sportsnet suggests the UFC must be cautious with Steveson, recommending a matchup against grappler Max Gimenis to avoid fighters with one-punch knockout power.
Other notable outcomes included former Bellator MMA featherweight champion Patricio Pitbull scoring a first-round knockout of Dooho Choi, and Casey O'Neill securing a historic helicopter armbar submission over Eduarda Moura. O'Neill has since called out Maycee Barber for a potential fight later this year or in early 2027, as reported by Sportsnet.