The upcoming UFC Mexico event is headlined by a highly anticipated rematch between Brandon Moreno and Brandon Royval in the flyweight division. This fight presents a crucial moment for both fighters, looking to establish themselves in the title picture.
Brandon Royval Defeats Brandon Moreno at UFC Mexico
Moreno, (21-7-2) has had a rollercoaster journey since their first fight in November 2020, which ended abruptly due to Royval’s shoulder injury. Moreno’s career since then has been significant, including a tetralogy with Deiveson Figueiredo where Moreno showcased his resilience and skill, going 2-1-1 against the former champion. Moreno’s recent loss to Alexandre Pantoja in a title bout at UFC 290 underlined his competitive spirit and high-level performance. Moreno’s grappling and striking have consistently improved, still making him a title-worthy opponent in the division.
Brandon Royval
“Raw Dog” Royval (15-7) enters this rematch following a decision loss to Pantoja, marking his first attempt at UFC gold. Despite setbacks, Royval’s journey back to this point has been marked by victories over Rogerio Bontorin, Matt Schnell, and Matheus Nicolau, showcasing his consistent will to win and determination. Royval’s aggressive approach and submission skills have made him a standout fighter, though his journey has seen ups and downs since their first encounter.
The fight is expected to be a mix of high-level striking and grappling, with both fighters excelling in scrambles and possessing effective wrestling and jiu-jitsu skills. Moreno’s striking, particularly his jab, and Royval’s body and calf kicks from the southpaw stance are expected to be key components of their strategies. While Moreno secured a TKO in their first meeting due to Royval’s injury, the rematch promises to be a competitive bout with the potential for a late finish due to Moreno’s consistent output and wrestling capabilities.
What Unfolded at UFC Mexico City
Brandon Royval immediately puts the pressure on Moreno backing the fan favorite up against the fence, however, not much engagement forced Herb Dean to ask both fighters to engage. Both men are feeling one another out trying to download data and make reads. Moreno showing real patience waiting for Royval to engage before countering himself. A round with not much action, but Moreno leading in the significant strikes sat.
In-between rounds Royval’s corner had ice on his foot, which looks swollen, but he instantly throws it in the opening exchange. Moreno’s starting to find his timing and lands a rocket of a right hand flush to Royval’s face, which stumbles him momentarily, but still marches forward. Royval found some success in the exchanges, specifically with his knee’s down the middle, but he was always met with a great counter from Moreno.
The third starts like the previous two, with Royval pushing Moreno against the fence looking to pick his moments. For a split second after a scramble, Moreno was able to get the back of Royval against the fence while standing, but he was able to get out of danger relatively easy and both men returned to the cage. Royval picking up some momentum in round three throwing all his weapons, and starting to take control of the fight.
Royval comes out pushing the pace again, but Moreno listens to his corner early and starts to land combo’s, chewing up the left chew of Royval. Twenty-one leg kicks thus far for Moreno, and Royval starting to feel it. Royval starting to pick up the pace against in the second half of the round, landing to the body, touching, and also throwing -a takedown at the end of the combination. All to fight for in the fifth and final round.
Both men tired, bruised, but still flinging leather in the centre of the cage in the final round. Royval really giving it everything, while Moreno shells up, and fires an overhand right when he finds the space. Minute to go and both Royval and Moreno give it all they’ve got.
