Rankings Tracker: UFC 301

A discernible buzz of excitement surrounds UFC 301, as the Ultimate Fighting Championship prepares to invade Farmasi Arena this Saturday in Rio de Janeiro. The streets figure to be bustling with activity, as the spirit of passionate fans spreads while they rally behind their favorite fighters.

Ahead of the UFC’s first visit to Brazil’s second-most populous city in more than a year, a look at the skilled athletes who are not only fighting for victory but also aim to make a significant climb in Sherdog’s Official Mixed Martial Arts Rankings:

Alexandre Pantoja vs. Steve Erceg

It was unclear as to who would be the next challenger in line when Pantoja got the best of Brandon Moreno and Brandon Royval in 2023. The Brazilian has been on a tear since 2021, leaving behind a trail of five vanquished opponents and solidifying his claim as the undisputed king of the flyweight division.

The UFC’s decision to pair him with Erceg must have come as a surprise for many, considering that it has not even been a year since the Australian made his promotional debut. Regardless, Erceg’s record is certainly noteworthy, as “Astro Boy” has mounted an 11-fight winning streak—he sits a 3-0 in the UFC— and comes with the added bonus of having never been finished as a pro. The former Eternal MMA champion announced his arrival as a viable title contender with a second-round knockout of Matt Schnell in March and now finds himself within arm’s reach of capturing coveted gold.

Pantoja remains one of the most diverse and well-rounded fighters on the UFC roster, reflected by the No. 7 spot he holds in the Sherdog Pound-for-Pound Top 10 Rankings and the top spot he occupies on the 125-pound ladder. Meanwhile, Erceg has staked his claim at the No. 9 position in the flyweight ranks.

Jonathan Martinez vs. Jose Aldo

Martinez shares the Octagon with a legend of the sport when he squares off against Jose Aldo in the co-main event—perhaps the most eagerly bout on the card. Aldo, the former long-reigning featherweight champion, comes out of retirement to take on a surging challenger at 135 pounds. Martinez has posted 10 wins in 12 appearances and carries a six-fight winning streak into his most significant opportunity to date. Aldo, meanwhile, has not competed since August 2022 and holds a 3-3 record as a bantamweight. The Brazilian icon will be keen on putting on a show for the passionate home crowd.

Aldo dropped off the rankings bubble following the announcement of his retirement. Meanwhile, Martinez occupies the No. 15 spot in the 135-pound bracket.