Aizawl: Mizoram CM Lalduhoma on Sunday congratulated Joshua Van Bawi Thawng, also known as Joshua Van, after he retained his UFC flyweight title with a win over Alexandre Pantoja in their rematch at UFC 331 in Los Angeles.Van, who is originally from Myanmar, is from the Chin community and has cultural and ancestral links with Mizoram.In a post on social media, Lalduhoma said: “Heartiest congratulations to Joshua Van Bawi Thawng on successfully defending your UFC Flyweight Championship at UFC 331. Your determination, discipline and outstanding performance have brought immense pride to the Mizo community and inspired young athletes to pursue their dreams with dedication. Wishing you continued success and many more historic achievements.”In a video circulating online, the Myanmar-born fighter is seen wearing a traditional Mizo shawl while delivering a message to supporters: “Mizoram, we did it again!”The gesture underlined Van’s connection with supporters in Mizoram, a state he has previously visited.Van has received strong support from fans in Mizoram, reflecting the cultural and linguistic links shared by many Chin and Mizo communities across the India-Myanmar border.The 24-year-old fighter beat Brazilian Alexandre Pantoja in Dec 2025 after Pantoja suffered an accidental elbow dislocation 26 seconds into the fight.Van, the first UFC champion born in the 2000s, defended the belt against Tatsuro Taira in May. His latest win over Pantoja further strengthened his claim as the top fighter in the flyweight division.Van received a hero’s welcome in Aizawl during his visit to Mizoram in late May. He met Lalduhoma at the CM’s Office in Aizawl on May 29.
