At UFC Mexico City’s media day, Brandon Moreno discussed the current state of the flyweight title picture and how he fits into it.
It’s no secret that Mexico’s Brandon Moreno is one of the most beloved flyweights on the UFC’s roster. The 31-year-old former champion has sat atop the flyweight rankings for over five years following his return to the promotion. Despite two losses (three if you count TUF) to current champion Alexandre Pantoja, Moreno still believes a win this weekend puts him at the top of flyweight title conversations.
“Right now, everything’s very weird in the flyweight division. I think Manel deserves an opportunity; Kai Kara-France deserves the opportunity. Winning this Saturday, I believe I can raise my hand and say ‘Hey man, I think I deserve the opportunity as well’. I know the UFC wants to come back in September for Noche UFC so just let me take that victory this Saturday and we can talk about it.
Moreno further dove into the complexity of the topic, admitting that he’s unaware of how much of a draw he actually is:
“I mean I think it’s not a secret for a lot of people. It’s always the same with the flyweight division. I don’t really know how much I move the needle for the company, that’s the truth. What I know is I move the needle more than the other guys.”
Brandon Moreno Looks to Avoid Adding Pressure
Moreno is yet to find a victory in his home country, holding an unimpressive 0-2-1 record in Mexico. When asked if this holds any weight over him when fighting there, Moreno shrugged off the thought,
“That is something I had to avoid for this one… There’s a lot of pressure as always, but I can’t put more on that. I can’t put more weight on my shoulders.”
Moreno took a 9-month break following his loss to Brandon Royval in Mexico City just over a year ago. He returned last November in Edmonton and put a beating on top contender Amir Albazi to get back in the win column and solidify his top ranking.
Now, Brandon Moreno gets another tough matchup against Australian up-and-comer Steve Erceg, who received the fight against Moreno despite a two-fight losing streak.
“He’s dangerous, he’s very talented. Very good boxing, very good mixed martial arts in general. I’m ready for him; I’m ready for all the things he’s bringing to the fight. It’s a fight that makes me super excited.”
This fight is a great test for both fighters at the current stage of their careers. The winner will likely see themselves in a number one contender or possible title fight for their next bout.
Do you think Brandon Moreno moves the needle enough to earn a title shot with a win this weekend? Let us know in the comments below.
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