Following UFC Mexico, Brandon Moreno remains a key figure in the flyweight title conversation. His recent victory in Mexico City against Steve Erceg has solidified his position near the top of the 125-pound division. This win raises questions about Moreno`s future and the landscape of the flyweight division. Let`s delve into some of the pressing questions.
Brandon Moreno`s Title Path
Despite Moreno`s strong performance and desire for another fight with current champion Alexandre Pantoja, a fourth match-up might not be immediate. While anything is possible, especially with events like Noche UFC in Mexico, it seems unlikely at this moment.
The primary obstacle is Moreno`s 0-3 record against Pantoja. Although some of these fights were earlier in their careers, this record is a significant hurdle. To earn another title shot, Moreno needs a truly undeniable run. Currently, Brandon Royval`s recent win over Moreno puts him ahead in contention. Furthermore, Manel Kape is expected to be Pantoja`s next challenger later this year.
However, the possibility of Pantoja moving up to bantamweight could change the division entirely. Pantoja has achieved considerable success at flyweight, defeating top contenders multiple times. If Pantoja moves to challenge for the 135-pound title, potentially against Merab Dvalishvili, it would open up opportunities in the flyweight division. This could create a scenario where Moreno and Royval could compete for an interim title.
Steve Erceg`s Standing
Steve Erceg, despite recent losses, should not be underestimated. While on a three-fight losing streak, these defeats have come against top-tier opponents within the flyweight division. This highlights Erceg`s high level of competition rather than indicating a decline in his skills. Erceg has faced a rapid ascent in the UFC, facing elite fighters early in his UFC career. His performance against Pantoja demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level.
While a slight step back in competition might be beneficial, Erceg remains a formidable fighter in the flyweight division. He could successfully compete against other fighters in the top 10, while also needing to defend his position against rising contenders. Emerging talents like Joshua Van or Ramazan Temirov could be potential opponents for Erceg.
Manuel Torres` Potential
Manuel Torres is an exciting and dynamic fighter, showcased by his recent victory over Drew Dober. However, despite his impressive UFC record and exciting fight style, becoming a UFC champion in the lightweight division is a significant challenge. While Torres is entertaining and consistently delivers exciting fights, the lightweight division is incredibly competitive. At 30 years old, the path to the championship is exceptionally difficult, even if he possesses the necessary skills.
Fighters like Torres, along with others such as Ignacio Bahamondes, Benoit Saint-Denis, and Joel Alvarez, contribute to the excitement and depth of the lightweight division, promising compelling matchups in the future.
Rodriguez`s Future in Flyweight
Rodriguez`s recent performance and weight miss at UFC Mexico raise concerns. While still young and popular, his fight IQ and overall talent level might not be top-tier. UFC Mexico was a setback for Rodriguez, highlighting areas for improvement.
To succeed in the rapidly evolving flyweight division, Rodriguez needs to refocus and develop his skills quickly. The flyweight division is becoming increasingly competitive with many young and talented fighters emerging.
All-Time Greats in MMA
Evaluating fighters as potential all-time greats is a valuable perspective. Islam Makhachev is already a strong contender in the GOAT conversation, particularly in the lightweight division. Another couple of title defenses would solidify his place as a legendary lightweight.
Currently, a select group of active fighters are arguably considered all-time greats, including Makhachev, Alexandre Pantoja, Jose Aldo, Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira, Kamaru Usman, Israel Adesanya, Alex Pereira, Zhang Weili, and Valentina Shevchenko. Other fighters like Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and Rose Namajunas are also in consideration.
Looking ahead, fighters like Merab Dvalishvili, Ilia Topuria, Dricus du Plessis, and Tom Aspinall have the potential to join the ranks of all-time greats in the future.
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely