Steve Erceg Nickname ‘Astroboy’: Meaning Behind the UFC Star’s Moniker

Steve Erceg has fully leaned into the meme of him being compared to Michael Scott, the popular character played by Steve Carell in the American version of ‘The Office’. This is just as well since the meme has become so popular that the Australian has been christened ‘Michael Scott’ by many fans.

However, that is not his actual nickname. His real moniker, however, is just as amusing and has to do with how he looks. As he sets up to face Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 301 in a flyweight bout, let us take a look at his moniker and the story behind it.

Story and meaning behind Steve Erceg’s nickname, ‘AstroBoy’

Steve Erceg will fight for the 125-pound title in only his fourth fight in the UFC. While the Australian is ranked #10 in the division and is a relative newcomer, champion Alexandre Pantoja wanted to fight a “fresh” face and thus chose to fight the Wilkes’ Martial Arts team member.

While he has become popular as Michael Scott on the UFC internet circles, his real nickname is ‘AstroBoy’. This was given to him by his coach’s ex-girlfriend. The 28-year-old was given the nickname due to his resemblance to the popular Japanese cartoon character. But, as he sets up to face Pantoja, it seems a nickname change is on order.

After being called ‘Michael Scott’ due to his middle-aged dad looks and mild mannerisms by fans online, the flyweight posted a picture of himself photoshopped on Michael Scott’s picture. However, do not let his appearance deceive you. The Australian is a dangerous fighter who came into the sport inspired by Brock Lesnar.

What inspired Steve Erceg to take up MMA?

Steve Erceg found MMA via the WWE. As a huge WWE fan as a child, Erceg saw Brock Lesnar make his momentous and consequential transition to the UFC in 2008, which served as the Australian’s first introduction to the fledgling sport of mixed martial arts.

However, Erceg fell in love with the sport after he saw Frank Mir submit the gargantuan physical specimen, Brock Lesnar, in the first round. This made him realize just how effective MMA as a martial art was, and he was riveted. This moment proved a defining one for young Erceg, as he embarked on his MMA journey after it.

And now he finds himself fighting for the title in the biggest, most popular MMA promotion in the world. If Erceg can win the title at UFC 301 in Rio de Janeiro, given his meme potential and marketability, he has the potential to become a bona fide star. What are your predictions for UFC 301?