Steve Erceg previews UFC 305 fight against "dangerous" Kai Kara-France, believes he's "slightly more dynamic" than the Kiwi
Steve Erceg is set to take on Kai Kara-France at UFC 305, facing the former interim flyweight title challenger in the co-main event. While he acknowledged Kara-France as a dangerous opponent, Erceg believes himself to be the more dynamic fighter, which he highlighted as an advantage.
The recent undisputed UFC flyweight title challenger spoke to Submission Radio ahead of his clash with Kara-France. Erceg believes that his insight into his opponent's skills will benefit him, enabling him to avoid certain threats once they lock horns inside the octagon.
"I think he is very dangerous, but I think I'm slightly more dynamic. I stay away from certain weapons of his, and I think I'd have more ways to win on the feet."
Check out Steve Erceg's thoughts on fighting Kai Kara-France (2:58):
A win over Kara-France would be monumental for Erceg, given their disparity in the UFC flyweight rankings. The one-time interim title challenger is ranked in the top five at No.4, while Erceg, who recently fought for the undisputed divisional title, is at the bottom of the top 10 at No.9.
Given how competitive his bout with reigning flyweight king Alexandre Pantoja was, a win over his UFC 305 opponent could catapult him right back into title contention, where Erceg almost certainly sees himself, as he gave a good account of himself against the Brazilian titleholder.
He held the advantage on the feet, where he showcased a crisp boxing skill set. Unfortunately, his fight IQ in the grappling department failed him, and he was outworked by the champion on the mat.
Steve Erceg has never fought in his hometown in the UFC
Steve Erceg is from Perth, Australia, and he has never fought in his hometown while part of the UFC. This will be his first instance of being a hometown hero, especially in the co-main event, where he takes on New Zealand phenom Kai Kara-France.
It is also a highly visible event, as UFC 305 features the return of Israel Adesanya against hated rival and reigning UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis. An exceptional performance against a top five flyweight at such a high-profile event could do wonders for Erceg, especially in front of his fellow countrymen.