Alexandre pantoja became flyweight champion against Brandon Moreno. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
protagonist of UFC 301, Alexandre pantoja opened the game to talk about an 'unexpected' opponent for his second flyweight title defense (under 56,7kg). In order to present himself in front of his audience, the athlete did not hesitate to give the chance to Steve Erceg, currently 10th in the ranking. In a sincere stance, the athlete explained the reason for accepting the duel.
“It's funny because that's basically what I asked for. I was joking that I wanted a slightly unknown opponent and this guy came to me, who is tough. I even said, 'I hope this guy moves up a division, because he's huge.' Then it falls to me, but I say that jokingly. He is a very difficult opponent,” said Pantoja in an interview with UFC.
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Aware that Erceg will be a difficult task, Pantoja stated that he sees the Australian as a more difficult confrontation than it would be against old rivals.
“I believe that, at this moment, he is more difficult than Royval, than Moreno, because he is a guy who comes from behind with nothing to lose. He is number 10 in the ranking, he comes fresh to the category. The only thing against it is that I think I have more fighting experience. I believe this will be used by me in the Octagon,” he concluded.
A. Pantoja (left) faces S. Erceg (right) in the UFC 301. Photo: Reproduction/Montage SUPER FIGHTS
In dispute for the flyweight title, Pantoja and Erceg will face each other on May 4th, in the main fight of the UFC 301, which will be held in Rio de Janeiro. The clash marks the Brazilian's second title defense.
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