Steven Erceg Bounces Back: Adaptability, Osborne Victory, and What’s Next

For Australian flyweight Steven “Astroboy” Erceg, the road to his most recent UFC victory has been defined by adaptability as much as preparation. Coming off a tough run of three straight losses, the Perth-based fighter entered his clash with Ode Osborne knowing it was win-or-fade into the background of the UFC flyweight division.

Weight Cut Adjustments Ahead of the Osborne Fight

Originally, Erceg planned to hit the UFC flyweight limit (57kg/125lbs). He cut down to 63 kilograms, just half a kilo away from his target before the final water drop. But when the bout was shifted to bantamweight, he stopped at 63.5kg.

“It was an easy cut,” Erceg explained. “I could’ve made flyweight if needed. The shift didn’t change how I felt, and Osborne wasn’t stronger than me—just fast and powerful. That would’ve been the same at flyweight.”

Surviving the Early Scare

The fight itself was not without danger. Erceg absorbed an early equilibrium shot that left him on shaky legs, but his composure never wavered.

“Mentally I was still there, completely. It just messed with my balance. Once I adjusted, I knew I could finish strong.”

Erceg rallied, regained his rhythm, and ultimately snapped his losing streak—securing a much-needed UFC win that reasserts his place among Australia’s top MMA prospects.

Fight Week Uncertainty

Another challenge came before the cage door even closed: opponent swaps.

“At the end of the day, it shouldn’t matter who they put in there. I’ve been preparing the whole time. Size didn’t affect me. What matters is showing up and making the most of it.”

That resilience paid off with a victory that many see as a career reset moment for Erceg in the UFC.

Perth UFC Card and Recovery

With the UFC Perth card looming large for Australian MMA fans, Erceg wanted to fight at home. However, post-fight headaches kept him out of sparring for four weeks, making a quick turnaround impossible.

“I wanted it, of course. But once they said the card was full, I accepted it. You can’t risk the rest of your career for one night, even at home.”

Instead, Erceg will take time away for his wedding and honeymoon with long-time partner Katelyn, before targeting a return to the UFC octagon in early-to-mid 2026.

Thoughts on Anthony Drilich

Closer to home, Erceg weighed in on fellow Aussie flyweight Anthony Drilich, known for his devastating knockout power.

“Drilich can knock anybody out. I think he should win his next one. If he strings a couple together, he’s back in the UFC picture. He only needs that left hand on Contender Series to change everything.”

What the Osborne Victory Means for Erceg

For Erceg, the UFC Osborne win was more than just breaking a skid—it was validation.

“Three losses in a row, you start to wonder. But this proves I belong here. This is where I should be.”

Now, with marriage ahead and a refreshed perspective, Steven Erceg is locked on 2026. The Osborne fight was a statement: he’s not just surviving in the UFC—he’s back to building the legacy he envisioned from day one.

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