Kai Kara-France Knocks Out Steve Erceg at UFC 305

Kara-France is back in contention in the flyweight division

Justin Barrasso | Aug 18, 2024

This spring, Steve Erceg was moments away from defeating Alexandre Pantoja and winning the UFC Flyweight Championship.

Pantoja found a way to control the fifth round and win the fight–and the downward spiral continued for Erceg (12-3) at UFC 305, where he was finished in the opening round by Kai Kara-France by TKO.

That's why you don't blink when he fights! 👀@KaiKaraFrance delivers an amazing performance at #UFC305!

[ LIVE NOW on @ESPNPlus PPV ] pic.twitter.com/3ZmaH4esqW
— UFC (@ufc) August 18, 2024

After two straight losses, Kara-France thrusts himself back into title contention with the victory. His overhand left dropped Erceg, then his right hand put Erceg’s lights out.

Letting his actions speak! 👊@KaiKaraFrance believes a flyweight title shot could be next after his #UFC305 victory!

[ LIVE NOW on @ESPNPlus PPV ] pic.twitter.com/vE4kPp7U56
— UFC (@ufc) August 18, 2024

It was a statement win for Kara-France (25-11, 1 NC). He needed a win and a highlight reel finish, and he got both–opening a distinct possibility that he is next in line for Pantoja.

Published Aug 18, 2024|Modified Aug 18, 2024

JUSTIN BARRASSO

Justin Barrasso has been writing for Sports Illustrated since 2014. While his primary focus is pro wrestling and MMA, he has also covered MLB, NBA, and the NFL. He can be reached at JBarrasso@gmail.com and followed on Twitter @JustinBarrasso.