UFC 313: Pereira vs. Ankalaev – Flyweight Bout  Joshua Van vs Rei Tsuruya

UFC 313: Pereira vs. Ankalaev on March 8, 2025, will feature an exciting flyweight matchup between Joshua Van (-185) and the undefeated Rei Tsuruya (+150). This fight pits Van’s aggressive, power-based striking against Tsuruya’s relentless grappling and submission skills.

 

Fighter Profiles

Joshua Van (-185)

Record: 12-2-0 | Team: 4oz Fight Club | Stance: Orthodox | Height: 5'5"

Van is a high-paced, explosive fighter who has quickly made a name for himself in the flyweight division. With six knockouts in his professional career, he has proven to be one of the more dangerous strikers in the division. His aggressive approach allows him to overwhelm opponents, but he also possesses solid takedown defense and durability.

Rei Tsuruya (+150)

Record: 10-0-0 | Team: Paraestra Matsudo | Stance: Orthodox | Height: 5'6"

Tsuruya is an undefeated prospect from Japan with a background in high-level grappling. He has finished four opponents via submission and possesses strong wrestling skills that allow him to dictate where the fight takes place. His striking is still developing, but his ability to chain takedowns together makes him a serious threat.

Key Fight Dynamics

Joshua Van’s Strengths

• Explosive Striking: Van carries serious knockout power for the flyweight division.
• High Pace: His aggressive fighting style puts pressure on his opponents from the opening bell.
• Improved Takedown Defense: While not an elite grappler, Van has shown solid takedown defense against skilled wrestlers.

Rei Tsuruya’s Strengths

• Elite Grappling: Tsuruya is a submission threat who can dominate on the ground.
• Cardio and Control: His relentless pace and ability to hold opponents down could wear Van out.
• Unbeaten Momentum: Coming in undefeated, he has the confidence of never tasting defeat.

What to Expect

Van will aim to keep the fight standing, using his striking to control the exchanges and avoid being taken down. He has shown resilience in previous fights and has improved his takedown defense, which will be crucial against a grappler like Tsuruya. If Van can stuff takedowns early and keep the fight at his range, he should be able to land big shots and push the pace.

Tsuruya’s best path to victory is to close the distance and get Van to the ground as quickly as possible. His ability to mix up takedowns and maintain top control could allow him to grind out a win. However, if he struggles to secure the takedown, he could be in serious danger against Van’s striking.

Prediction