Erceg’s Aussie homecoming spoiled by first-round TKO

Kai Kara-France’s return to the octagon was nothing short of a thrill as he unveiled a first-round knockout to spoil Steve Erceg’s Aussie homecoming.
The co-main event in Perth marked the first return of the one-time interim flyweight title challenger, who entered the ring on a two-straight losing streak.
But his right hand proved the deciding factor on Sunday, with Erceg left stumbling on his feet as the referee interjected in the fight.
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Following a minute of solid combinations and failed hits, Kara-France threw the Aussie ‘Astroboy’ into survival mode as he unleashed an explosive left hand and dropped Erceg.
“He has knocked out Steve Erceg in round one,” Dominick Cruz called in commentary.
“He got him with the left hook, but the right hook is what sat him down. Floored him.
“A title fight might be next.”
Kai Kara-France of New Zealand fights Steve Erceg of Australia in the Flyweight Bout during UFC 305. Getty
The victory marks the New Zealand national’s 13th first-round knockout.
Meanwhile, Erceg accepts another defeat after coming up short in his flyweight title bout against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 301.
Kara-France attributed his success to his Maori heritage, stating his strength and resilience were inherited from his culture.
“It’s because I’m Maori bro,” Kara-France said of his victory.
“We knew Steve was going to be crafty. He is smart so I had to set him up for the second phase.
“I couldn’t just let the cannon go. I had to set it up and be smart.”
Kai Kara-France celebrates UFC 305. Zuffa LLC
The 31-year-old’s return was driven by the urge to become a championship contender, with his latest performance attesting to his abilities.
“Who do you think I should fight next? For the title?,” Kara-France called to the crowd.
“This is the statement I was talking about. I want my actions to be my loudest voice.