Alexandre Pantoja retains title in return to Brazil and defeats Steve Hercog by narrow decision – UFC 301 highlights

Undisputed flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja was successful in his first homecoming since moving to the Octagon, successfully retaining his division title with a unanimous decision over challenger Steve Erceg (48-47, 48-46, 49-46). their UFC 301 main event.

Pantoja, the current undisputed flyweight titleholder, headlined his return to Rio de Janeiro today at UFC 301, having successfully defended his UFC 296 crown back in December in a rematch victory over Brandon Royval.

As for Erceg, the Australian, who was on a three-fight winning streak and a stint in the Octagon, earned his title shot against Pantoja tonight thanks to a stunning knockout win over Matt Schnell just a month ago.

And starting off in typical aggressive fashion, Pantoja managed to successfully battle through five rounds against Perth native Erceg.

However, facing a massive cut to his forehead, Pantoja took his foot off the gas significantly in the fourth round – and managed to turn the fight in his favor in the fifth and final frame to successfully retain his throne at the top of the 125-pound division.

Catch below basic moments after Alexander Pantoja's title defense against Steve Erceg