Steve Erceg issues statement following brutal KO loss at UFC Abu Dhabi: “Things don’t always go your way”

Steve Erceg has updated fans after face planting during the UFC Abu Dhabi co-main event.

Erceg was looking to extend his winning streak to three when he collided with Ramazan Temirov this past Saturday. “Astro Boy” got dropped with a right hand in the opening frame, and Temirov never took his foot off the gas. Eventually, Temirov caught him on the chin a few more times and Erceg was dropped again to seal the deal.

In a video update posted on his Instagram page, Erceg told fans that he’s in good health following the rough knockout loss (via Bloody Elbow).

“Hey guys, just wanted to check in and let you know that I’m okay,” Erceg said. “I had a great camp, felt fantastic, but unfortunately things don’t always go your way. First of all, thank you to the UFC for all the opportunities you’ve afforded me. Thank you to Abu Dhabi for the hospitality, and congratulations to Sharabutdin on a great fight. Lastly, I’d like to say to all my family and friends that your continuous support means the world.

“I’ll be back. Thanks.”

This is Erceg’s first loss since March 2025. He had snapped a three-fight skid with a unanimous decision over Ode Osbourne. Erceg followed that up with another decision over Tim Elliot, but he will need to get back on the horse after being stopped for the second time in his pro MMA career.

Meanwhile, Temirov continues his rise in the flyweight division. Erceg was ranked No. 13 in the Meta panel rankings and No. 10 in the media rankings prior to Saturday’s loss. That means Temirov will have a number next to his name in both panels when the rankings are updated.

Where does Steve Erceg go from here? Are his hopes of reentering the UFC title picture a pipe dream, or can he overcome this latest setback? Drop your opinion in the comments below.