The Ultimate Fighting Championship has made an unexpected decision regarding the next challenger for the flyweight title.
In a surprising move, the promotion announced that Alexandre Pantoja (27-5) will defend his flyweight championship against Australia’s Steve Erceg (12-1) at UFC 301. While it’s uncertain if this bout will headline the event, the card is shaping up to feature several intriguing matchups.
Pantoja, known as “The Cannibal,” has been dominant in the flyweight division since 2021. Earning his title shot in 2023 after a string of five impressive victories. He successfully defended his belt at UFC 296 by defeating Brandon Royval via unanimous decision. This will mark Pantoja’s first fight in his home country of Brazil since joining the UFC in 2017.
On the other hand, Erceg, dubbed “Astro Boy,” has quickly risen through the ranks with three victories inside the Octagon. His most recent win came in March when he knocked out Matt Schnell with a single punch at UFC Fight Night 238. Despite being relatively new to the UFC, Erceg has already made a significant impact in the flyweight division.
UFC 301 is scheduled to take place at the Rio Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on May 4. While the main event has yet to be announced, the co-headlining spot is expected to feature the flyweight championship clash between Alexandre Pantoja and Steve Erceg. Additionally, the card will include exciting matchups such as Anthony Smith vs. Vitor Petrino at light heavyweight. As well as Michel Pereira vs. Makhmud Muradov in the middleweight division and Karolina Kowalkiewicz-Iasmin Lucindo in a strawweight bout.
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