UFC champion Alexandre Pantoja returns to fight in Rio de Janeiro for the first time in over a decade at UFC 301 on Saturday with just one thing in mind, creating a Carnival atmosphere.

The 34-year-old undisputed flyweight king makes the second defence of his title against surprise challenger Steve Erceg aiming to accelerate his championship reign.

Pantoja last fought in the city that raised and made him in December 2013, three years prior to even signing with the UFC.

But, in the time he’s been away, he’s smashed his way through the current elite crop of 125lb’ers and is currently enjoying a five-fight win streak that’s coincided with winning the title.

THE CANNIBAL

“I grew up on these streets, this is my neighbourhood. It’s going to be a very good night because the I am feeling the pressure in front of all my oldest and closest friends,” Pantoja says.

“When I win it’s going to feel like New Year’s Eve. It’s going to be a huge party and I cannot wait.”

Whilst the champion has only owned the championship belt 10 months, he’s already beaten most of the top 10 ranked flyweights during his 14-fight UFC tenure.

That’s why the UFC has gone as deep as the #10 ranked guy to find an opponent that’s not only fresh competition for ‘The Cannibal’ but also someone fans can get excited about.

ASTRO BOY

Twelve months ago, Erceg wasn’t even in the UFC.

After dominating domestically at home in Perth, Australia, ‘Astro Boy’ was on the radar of the world’s leading MMA promotion, but it was only after a late injury withdrawal that he finally got his chance.

At UFC 289 in Canada last summer, Erceg stepped in to replace Matt Schnell against ranked David Dvorak and scored himself a unanimous points victory.

The 28-year-old repeated the result in November against Alessandro Costa and then in March KO’d Schnell with a single left hook in the second round to legitimise his contendership.

However, it was only after a couple of guys ranked about him passed on the fight due to injuries that this weekend’s opportunity landed in his lap.

So, just 330 days into his UFC career, Erceg will fight for UFC gold with the added incentive of joining an elite club of champions to have tasted success inside their first year with the promotion.

“I was surprised to get the call up so soon, but in life you have to be ready and I’m ready to go to Brazil and silence the arena,” says the 12-1 Aussie.

IT’S TIME!

Despite his sensational one-punch knockout of Schnell, Erceg is not considered a puncher. But he does have excellent boxing skills; especially impressive footwork and a good shot selection.

Pantoja’s 27-5 career record includes 18 finishes, eight by KO, which suggests he actually has more impressive striking power. But, just like Erceg, he’s most impressive on the ground.

Once Pantoja gets on top of you, in your guard, he’s an absolute terror. A concrete blanket that’s almost impossible to get out from under who is constantly pushing for submissions through bursts of ground ‘n’ pound.

Erceg will have to produce the performance of his life to make his silencing of the arena prediction come true. More likely is a carnival to crown the new King of Rio.

TIP: Pantoja on Points

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