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Trying to rebound in enemy territory is not ideal for Paul Craig, but he’s used to beating the odds.
Craig (17-7-1 MMA, 9-7-1 UFC) meets Brazil’s Caio Borralho (15-1 MMA, 5-0 UFC) on Saturday’s UFC 301 (Pay-per-view/ESPN/ESPN+) main card opener at Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
Craig is a big underdog against streaking rising contender Borralho. He admits that he sees the matchup as an attempt by the UFC to make him lose, but relishes the opportunity to play spoiler.
“You’ve got to be honest with yourself when you look at the opponent you’re up against,” Craig told MMA Junkie. “He’s younger. He’s Brazilian. They’re taking a Scottish guy to Brazil.
“Of course, it’s not going to be a favorable fight, but we have built our career in the UFC over upsets. I’ve had a few upsets over people who I’ve expected to lose to, and risen to the occasion and got the victory, and that’s what I’m going to do this weekend.”
Those names happen to be the likes of none other than former champion Jamahal Hill and top contender Magomed Ankalaev, both of whom Craig finished during his light heavyweight tenure.
Craig praised Borralho’s heavy hands and grappling skills but thinks one major thing separates them.
“He doesn’t have that Paul Craig grit,” Craig said. “He doesn’t have that Paul Craig crazy jiu-jitsu – take a couple of shots and get a submission. That’s what he doesn’t have, and I don’t believe he’s come up against an opponent like myself. He’s come up against good wrestlers, good jiu-jitsu, good boxers, and he’s risen to the occasion.
“He’s had five fights in the UFC, and now he’s got an opportunity to pretty much – I would deem myself the gatekeeper of most divisions. If he can beat Paul Craig, you get to progress up the division. I am going to go out there and give it my all.”
In Rio's main event, we witness a flyweight title showdown between two striking specialists, each with their unique approach to combat.
Steve Erceg, a well-rounded fighter with a comfort on his feet, presents a multifaceted threat. A towering flyweight, Erceg utilizes his reach advantage effectively with a sharp jab and dynamic kicking game. Whether he's punishing opponents low with leg kicks or surprising them high with question mark kicks, the 28-year-old challenger maintains exceptional control of his lower body arsenal.
In the boxing realm, Erceg showcases a cultured left hand capable of altering its delivery and timing. In close quarters, Erceg employs his height advantage well, delivering knees and elbows strategically. His repertoire includes potent cross-counters, a tool that could prove pivotal in this matchup against Alexandre Pantoja.
Dubbed "The Cannibal," Pantoja embodies aggression and offensive prowess. A relentless pressure fighter, Pantoja thrives when moving forward, steering opponents towards the cage. While his technique and defense may occasionally falter, the Brazilian's offensive flow and counter-striking have evolved significantly. Pantoja's clinch game is a standout feature, with expertly timed body knees and strikes off breaks. Both fighters pose grappling threats, hinting at potential ground exchanges amidst the striking chaos.
Erceg, akin to Alexander Volkanovski, boasts wrestling credentials, adding a dynamic layer to his game. Capable of transitioning seamlessly from clinch to takedowns, Erceg's wrestling prowess could challenge Pantoja's domain. Pantoja, known for his reactive doubles and clinch dominance, must navigate Erceg's submission acumen cautiously. While Erceg has yet to face Pantoja's caliber of grappling, his resilience against formidable opponents suggests an intriguing clash of scrambling abilities.
In victory or defeat, Pantoja rarely finds himself in compromising positions, showcasing remarkable defensive instincts and transition prowess. His ground striking, often overlooked, is a potent weapon.
The oddsmakers favor Pantoja, underscoring his status as the sitting champion. With Erceg as the underdog, the stage is set for a compelling battle between two skilled strikers with contrasting styles.
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