Brandon Moreno Eyes Third UFC Championship After Decade-Long Career
Brandon Moreno is on the brink of a remarkable milestone in his career. After nearly a decade in the UFC, he aims to secure his third championship title. The 32-year-old flyweight from Tijuana will fight at the Arena Ciudad de Mexico for the fifth time, facing Lone’er Kavanagh in a crucial matchup.
Brandon Moreno’s UFC Journey
Moreno’s rise in the UFC has been nothing short of extraordinary. He became the first Mexican-born UFC champion in June 2021 when he submitted Deiveson Figueiredo with a rear-naked choke in the third round at UFC 263. This victory was just the beginning of a series of six consecutive title fights over three years, including four against Figueiredo.
However, since his last title run ended with a split decision loss to Alexandre Pantoja in July 2023, Moreno’s performance has been mixed. He holds a record of 2-2 since that fight, with a notable victory over Steve Erceg in Mexico City marking his return to winning form.
Upcoming Fight and Importance
Moreno’s upcoming contest against Kavanagh represents a critical point in his career. A convincing win could propel him back into title contention, while a loss might hinder his chances of reclaiming the championship. Currently ranked No. 7 by ESPN, Moreno is eager to demonstrate he remains a force in the flyweight division.
Early Career and The Ultimate Fighter
Moreno’s journey began with his participation in “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 24 in 2016. Initially selected as a low seed, he quickly showcased his talent. Despite being eliminated by Pantoja, he secured a UFC debut against Louis Smolka on short notice, winning via submission. This victory earned him a performance bonus, which changed his life by allowing him to purchase a home for his family.
His early UFC tenure included ups and downs, leading to a brief cut from the promotion in 2018 after sustaining back-to-back losses. However, he regained his footing with a championship victory in LFA, which opened the door for his return to the UFC.
Championship Legacy
Following his return, Moreno faced fierce competition, culminating in a historic rivalry with Figueiredo. Their first battle at UFC 256 ended in a draw, which sparked a series of matchups that solidified Moreno’s place in UFC history. He regained the title in June 2021, lost it at UFC 270, and reclaimed it at UFC 283.
Future Aspirations
With the current flyweight landscape featuring a talented roster, including champions and contenders, Moreno acknowledges the challenges ahead. He aims to be in the top five of all-time flyweights and feels motivated to reclaim his championship status, despite previous setbacks.
“Being UFC champion is a feat. Winning it a third time would be the highlight of my career,” Moreno shared. As he prepares for Kavanagh, his focus is on hard work, discipline, and the desire to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
Brandon Moreno is determined to cement his legacy as one of the best in UFC history. As he heads into this pivotal fight, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. A win could set the stage for another shot at the championship, highlighting the enduring spirit of a fighter who has overcome numerous challenges throughout his decade-long career.
