Alex Perez vs. Steve Erceg Added to UFC Vegas 109 With Middleweight Headliner Confirmed

Alex Perez and Steve Erceg are set to face each other in a flyweight matchup at UFC Vegas 109 on August 9. The announcement follows confirmation of a middleweight main event between Roman Dolidze and Anthony Hernandez. Both Perez and Erceg enter the bout looking to regain momentum after a series of tough fights.

Perez, holding a record of 25-9, has won only once in his last five matches. His most recent setback came after a knee injury during a bout with Tatsura Taira. Erceg, now at 12-4, is also hoping to return to the win column, having lost three straight since his title fight against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 301.

This matchup will give both fighters a chance to prove they still belong among the division’s top contenders. For fight fans, it’s a meeting with serious implications for the future of the UFC flyweight rankings. Learn more about the bout at MMA Fighting’s announcement of Alex Perez vs. Steve Erceg.

Alex Perez vs. Steve Erceg: Key Matchup Preview

Alex Perez and Steve Erceg, two former flyweight title challengers, meet at UFC Vegas 109 in a high-stakes bout. Both fighters are searching for consistency after recent setbacks and hope this fight can restart their momentum in the division.

Background and Recent Form

Alex Perez comes into UFC Vegas 109 with a professional record of 25-9. He has fought some of the top names at flyweight and challenged Deiveson Figueiredo for the UFC flyweight belt at UFC 255. Recently, Perez broke a three-fight losing streak by knocking out Matheus Nicolau. However, a knee injury in June 2024 brought another setback against Tatsuro Taira.

Steve Erceg, the Australian contender, stands at 12-4. He rose to title challenger status and battled Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 301. Although Erceg lost that fight by decision, his performance kept him in the rankings mix. Since then, he faced further defeats to Kai Kara-France and Brandon Moreno, both top-tier opponents. Erceg is seeking to end a three-fight losing streak and prove he belongs among the elite.

Fighting Styles and Strengths

Perez is recognized for his aggressive boxing, fluid footwork, and strong leg kicks. He combines quick striking combinations with solid takedown defense. His wrestling base allows him to control opponents on the mat or keep the fight standing when needed. Recent fights highlight Perez’s knockout power, especially in exchanges inside the octagon.

Erceg brings a well-rounded approach, blending technical striking with submission skills. He has a sharp jab and effective kicks, targeting both the legs and body. Erceg is comfortable scrambling and attacking from his back, making him dangerous on the ground and in transitions. He adapts well to different opponents, often using his reach and movement to dictate range and flow.

Stakes for the Flyweight Division

Both fighters are looking to bounce back and regain relevance among the veteran flyweight contenders. For Perez, a win secures his spot in the top 10 and could line him up for another high-profile matchup. Defeating an opponent like Erceg, who has recently fought champions, would add value to his résumé.

For Erceg, this fight is crucial. Stopping his losing streak after three straight losses would revive his path toward title contention. This matchup at UFC Vegas 109 could shift the rankings and set up future fights with other top flyweights. The outcome may influence title eliminator talks and the next wave of challengers for the current flyweight champion.

UFC Vegas 109 Full Fight Card Highlights

UFC Vegas 109, set for August 9 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, is headlined by Roman Dolidze vs. Anthony Hernandez in a high-stakes middleweight matchup. The card also features veteran flyweights Alex Perez and Steve Erceg, while several prospects and divisional staples round out the night.

Confirmed Headliners and Main Events

The main event of UFC Vegas 109 will be a middleweight showdown between Roman Dolidze and Anthony Hernandez. Both fighters are known for their grappling and toughness. Dolidze has held a spot in the UFC Rankings and remains a dangerous contender at 185 pounds.

Anthony Hernandez brings a relentless pace and strong wrestling pedigree, making this matchup one to watch for fans eager for a fast-paced battle. The co-main attraction features Alex Perez facing Steve Erceg, both looking to get back in the win column. These bouts are scheduled at the UFC Apex and will air live on ESPN.

Notable Bouts and Emerging Prospects

The card includes several other key matchups. Eryk Anders is expected to make his return, adding veteran presence to the middleweight slate. Angela Hill takes on rising contender Iasmin Lucindo in what many see as a clash between experience and youth in the strawweight division.

Mayra Bueno Silva faces Joselyne Edwards in a bantamweight contest that could impact the divisional rankings. Other notable names set to compete include Julija Stoliarenko, Gabriella Fernandes, and Julius Walker, all aiming to move up the ranks with a strong showing. Each bout offers a chance for prospects to break out on a highly visible Las Vegas event.

Journey to UFC Vegas 109: Fighters’ Recent Performances

Both Alex Perez and Steve Erceg are looking to get back on track after challenging runs in the UFC flyweight division. Their records show tough battles, key injuries, and high-profile opponents that have shaped the road to their next fight.

Alex Perez: Recent Battles and Comebacks

Alex Perez holds a professional record of 25 wins and 9 losses. His recent journey has included struggles with consistency, winning only once in his last five outings.

He ended a three-fight losing streak by defeating Matheus Nicolau with a knockout. Before that win, Perez faced former champion Deiveson Figueiredo in a title fight at UFC 255, where he was finished in the first round.

Despite the comeback, Perez’s momentum was halted when he suffered a knee injury during his last bout against Tatsura Taira in June 2024. This setback put him back in the loss column and raised questions about his form leading into UFC Vegas 109.

Steve Erceg: Campaigns and Challenges

Steve Erceg, with a record of 12-4, made a strong impression early in his UFC career but is now facing his own set of challenges. His recent performances include three straight losses, starting with a title shot.

In May 2024, he fought Alexandra Pantoja for the flyweight title at UFC 301. The match was close, ending in a competitive decision loss for Erceg.

Following the title fight, Erceg faced two of the division’s top competitors: Kai Kara-France and Brandon Moreno. He lost both contests, further extending his losing streak heading into his matchup with Perez.

Key Opponents and Pivotal Moments

Both fighters have faced top-tier talent and pressure situations. Perez’s pivotal moments include:

• Title fight against Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC 255

• Victory over Matheus Nicolau snapping a losing streak

• Knee injury suffered in a bout with Tatsura Taira

Erceg’s main highlights involve:

• Title fight loss to Alexandra Pantoja at UFC 301

• Decision defeats to Kai Kara-France and Brandon Moreno

These matchups against leading flyweights show the high level of competition both Perez and Erceg have encountered on their journey to UFC Vegas 109.

Significance and Implications for the Flyweight Division

Alex Perez and Steve Erceg will meet at UFC Vegas 109 as both look to halt recent losing streaks. The fight carries weight for the flyweight rankings and could shift the landscape for future title

contenders.

Impact on Title Contention

Both Perez and Erceg have recently challenged for the flyweight title but came up short. Perez fought Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC 255 and Erceg battled Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 301. A win at UFC Vegas 109 will help the victor remain relevant near the top of the division.

The matchup will likely affect the UFC's flyweight rankings and could move the winner closer to another title shot, especially given the division's current lack of clear title challengers. With each fighter seeking to prove they still belong among the elite, the stakes are high. Recent slides for both men raise the urgency.

The result of this fight will be watched closely by contenders and fans. Whoever wins could face another top-5 opponent next.

Potential Future Matchups

If Perez wins, he could be lined up against names like Brandon Royval, Manel Kape, or a rematch with Kai Kara-France. These matchups would offer further chances to prove himself against top competition.

If Erceg gets the victory, matchups against recent former champions such as Brandon Moreno or a fight with Matheus Nicolau could be next. His status as a recent title challenger keeps him an attractive option for main card bouts.

The outcome will play a significant role in shaping the next round of contender fights. The result will also influence the matchmakers as they set up bouts that keep the division active and competitive, with both men hoping to quickly return to the flyweight title picture.