- George Chung
- Aug 16, 2024
- 2 min read
Kai Kara-France is gearing up for an electrifying return to the Octagon, promising nothing less than fireworks for his fans at UFC 305. After a challenging 2023, which saw two of his Australia-based fights canceled due to injuries, the 31-year-old Kiwi fighter is more determined than ever to make a statement.
Initially set to face Alex Perez at UFC 284 in Perth, Kara-France was forced to withdraw due to injury. This marked the first of two disappointing cancellations, with a concussion sidelining him again before UFC 293. Adding to the frustration was a controversial split-decision loss to Amir Albazi in his only fight of the year, leaving Kara-France hungry for redemption.
Despite these setbacks, Kara-France remains undeterred. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, "The time off allowed me to refocus and put my energy into other aspects of my life, like being a husband and father. Now, I'm back with a clear vision and ready to face the best."
Now, Kara-France is laser-focused on his next challenge—a co-main event against Perth's own Steve Erceg at UFC 305. Erceg, who recently impressed in a title fight against Alexandre Pantoja, is a rising star in the flyweight division. But Kara-France is confident that their bout will deliver the action fans crave.
"This fight can't be anything but fireworks," Kara-France declared. "I'm ready to channel all the energy, whether it’s from those supporting me or those hoping to see me lose. It's going to be a showdown."
As one of the few fighters to remain in the flyweight division’s Top 5 despite a recent downturn, Kara-France knows that a victory over Erceg could put him back on the path to a title shot—and possibly a rematch with Pantoja, who edged him out in 2016 on The Ultimate Fighter.
With the fight set on the same card as his City Kickboxing teammates, Dan Hooker and Israel Adesanya, Kara-France is eager to put on a show. "The energy in our gym is amazing right now. We're all ready to take on our challenges, and I’m in the best place mentally and physically."
Kara-France is no stranger to delivering knockout performances, and he's aiming to become the first man to finish Erceg inside the Octagon. With a win in Perth, he could quickly find himself back in the title conversation.
"This is an entertainment sport," Kara-France emphasized. "You have to go out there, take risks, and make people remember your name. I'm ready to tap into that energy fighting close to home."
Don’t miss UFC 305: Du Plessis vs Adesanya, live from RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia on August 17, 2024. Prelims start at 8pm ET/5pm PT, with the main card live on PPV at 10pm ET/7pm PT. This is one fight night you won’t want to miss!
