Predictions for UFC 301 by MMA Fighting

Alexandre Pantoja, the flyweight champion, is set to defend his title in his hometown of Rio de Janeiro at UFC 301. The stage is set for a showdown between Pantoja and Australian Steve Erceg in the main event. Erceg, relatively unknown in the UFC with just three fights under his belt, has the opportunity to shock the world and blow the flyweight division wide open with a win over the champion.

In the co-main event, the return of Jose Aldo, “The King of Rio,” adds another layer of excitement to the event. Aldo, coming back to the octagon after a hiatus due to his boxing career, faces Jonathan Martinez in what could potentially be his farewell fight in front of his adoring Brazilian fans.

The main card also features intriguing matchups such as Anthony Smith vs. Vitor Petrino, Michel Pereira vs. Ihor Potieria, and Paul Craig vs. Caio Borralho. With a mix of experienced fighters and rising stars, UFC 301 promises to deliver an action-packed night of fights.

The event is scheduled to take place at the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, May 4. Fans can catch all the action starting with the early prelims on ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET, followed by the prelim card on ESPN and ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET. The main card, featuring the title fight between Pantoja and Erceg, will begin at 10 p.m. ET exclusively on ESPN+ pay-per-view.

As the anticipation builds for UFC 301, fight fans are eagerly awaiting to see if Pantoja can retain his title in front of his hometown crowd or if Erceg will pull off a stunning upset to shake up the flyweight division. The stage is set for a night of thrilling fights and unforgettable moments in Rio de Janeiro.