Steve Erceg challenges Alexandre Pantoja for the UFC flyweight title at UFC 301 in Rio. Discover how this rising star earned his shot at the championship.
| Key Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Event | Steve Erceg vs. Alexandre Pantoja for the UFC Flyweight Championship |
| Co-Main Event | Jose Aldo vs. Jonathan Martinez |
| Location | Farmasi Arena, Rio De Janeiro |
| Date and Time | Main card on May 4, 10 p.m. ET on ESPN+ PPV |
Rising Star Steve Erceg Takes on Champion Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 301
In the fast-paced world of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), new talents are constantly emerging, and Steve Erceg is one such fighter making headlines. With less than a year in the UFC, this Australian flyweight has quickly climbed the ranks and is now poised to challenge the reigning champion, Alexandre Pantoja, for the flyweight title.
Steve Erceg’s Swift Rise in UFC
Steve Erceg made a striking debut in June 2023, securing a decision victory that not only showcased his skills but also earned him a performance of the night bonus. His winning streak continued with a decision win over Alessandro Costa in November and a remarkable first-round knockout against Matt Schnell in March. This victory over Schnell, a top-10 contender in the 125-pound category, not only earned Erceg another post-fight bonus but also a shot at the title.
The Championship Fight : Erceg vs. Pantoja
The much-anticipated main event at UFC 301 will see Erceg stepping into the octagon against Alexandre Pantoja. The event is set to take place on a Saturday in Rio de Janeiro. Fans can catch the main card on ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET, with prelims starting at 8 p.m. on ESPN/ESPN+ and early prelims at 6 p.m. on ESPN+.
| Fighter | Record | Notable Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Steve Erceg | 12-1 | Matt Schnell, Alessandro Costa |
| Alexandre Pantoja | 27-5 | Brandon Moreno, Brandon Royval |
Pantoja, the current UFC men’s flyweight champion, has a formidable track record. With victories over top contenders like Brandon Moreno and Brandon Royval, he has dominated the division. Now, Erceg, with 11 consecutive wins, faces the challenge of his career against a seasoned champion.
Additional Highlights: UFC 301
The event also features a co-main event where former featherweight champion Jose Aldo comes out of retirement to face Jonathan Martinez. This adds another layer of excitement to an already thrilling card.
