3 Opponents For Brandon Moreno’s Next Fight After UFC Mexico Win

Brandon Moreno delivered an impressive performance in front of his home crowd at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, securing a unanimous decision victory over Steve Erceg in the main event of UFC Fight Night Mexico. The judges scored the contest 49-46 across the board, showcasing Moreno’s dominance despite Erceg’s valiant efforts.

Brandon Moreno and Steve Erceg go the distance!

How did you score it?! #UFCMexico pic.twitter.com/QxePPN52w4

— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) March 30, 2025

The bout was largely a technical striking affair, with Moreno utilizing his signature chaotic yet effective style to outpace Erceg. While Erceg landed more total strikes (116 to Moreno’s 89), Moreno’s shots were far more impactful, nearly flooring the Australian in the opening round and consistently pressuring him throughout the fight. Key weapons for Moreno included his overhand right and darting left hook, which kept Erceg on the defensive. Meanwhile, Moreno’s impeccable defense limited Erceg’s accuracy to just 27% of total strikes landed.

Moreno, a former two-time UFC flyweight champion, has now won two consecutive main events following his November victory over Amir Albazi. After the fight, Moreno expressed his desire to compete at UFC Noche in Guadalajara this September, aiming to headline a pay-per-view in his home country. With this win, Moreno solidifies his position as one of the top contenders in the flyweight division. Below are three potential matchups that could define his next move.

Kai Kara-France (Title Eliminator)

Should Kai Kara-France dethrone Pantoja later this year, a matchup between Kara-France and Moreno could serve as either a title fight or a title eliminator. Kara-France and Moreno have history; they fought at UFC 277 in July 2022, where Moreno won via third-round TKO with a vicious body kick.

A rematch would pit two of the division’s most exciting strikers against each other, with high stakes attached. Additionally, Kara-France’s rise to championship status would add intrigue to this potential clash.

Manel Kape (Top Contender Bout)

If neither a title shot nor an immediate rematch with Kara-France materializes, Manel Kape stands out as a worthy opponent for Moreno. Kape has been climbing the rankings steadily and is coming off impressive performances against top-tier opponents. This matchup would test whether Moreno can fend off surging contenders while waiting for another title opportunity. Kape’s aggressive striking style would make for an entertaining bout against Moreno’s unpredictable approach.

Alexandre Pantoja (Flyweight Title Rematch)

A rematch with current flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja is arguably the most compelling option for Moreno. Pantoja holds three victories over Moreno, including their razor-close split-decision bout at UFC 290 in July 2023. Despite these losses, Moreno remains one of Pantoja’s toughest rivals and has shown significant improvement since their last encounter.

If Pantoja retains his title against potentially Kai Kara-France later this year, a fourth fight between him and Moreno could headline UFC Noche in Guadalajara. This matchup would not only settle their rivalry but also provide an opportunity for Moreno to reclaim the belt in front of his home fans.

Brandon Moreno remains one of the most beloved fighters in MMA today, particularly among Mexican fans who have embraced him as a national hero. Whether it’s another shot at Pantoja or a fresh challenge against Kara-France or Kape, “The Assassin Baby” has plenty of exciting options ahead as he continues his quest for flyweight supremacy.