The UFC’s comeback in Mexico seems to have suffered a significant setback.
Last Saturday’s UFC 325 event marked the second consecutive numbered card within two weeks, signaling a promising start to the UFC 206 and the new Paramount era.
However, February looks quieter, with the next big numbered event scheduled for March 7 — UFC 326, where Charles Oliveira will face Max Holloway.
This month, there are three UFC Fight Night events planned in Las Vegas, Houston, and Mexico City. Yet, it seems the headline bout at Arena CDMX later this month won’t proceed as expected since one of the main fighters left the venue prematurely.
Breaking news reveals that Paddy Pimblett, ranked among the top five lightweights, has been removed from his fight and replaced by a strong contender who could potentially become Pimblett’s next opponent.
Brandon Moreno Needs a New Opponent after As Almabaev Withdraws from UFC Mexico
Local star Brandon Moreno, who was set to headline UFC Mexico City on February 28, aiming to replicate his 2025 success, now faces an uncertain matchup.
Just eleven months ago, Moreno triumphed over Steve Arseg in front of Mexican fans, securing his second consecutive victory.
After struggling to regain momentum following a loss to Tatsuro Heita at UFC 323 last December, Moreno was looking forward to a solid start to the year.
He was originally scheduled to face As Almabaev, a rising flyweight from Kazakhstan boasting a 6-1 UFC record since 2023.
However, according to reports from Ag Fight, Almabaev has pulled out of the main event in Mexico City.
Considering Moreno’s huge popularity in Mexico, the UFC is likely to find a suitable replacement to keep him in the headline bout on February 28.
Brandon Moreno Will Not Be Fighting the UFC Flyweight Champion
The path back to the 125-pound title looked shorter for “Assassin Baby” late last year.
Moreno lost his flyweight championship to Alexandre Pantoja in 2023, who now sports just two professional losses and three MMA losses overall.
With a 0-3 record against Pantoja — also known as “The Cannibal” — it has been tough for Moreno to reenter the title picture.
Joshua Bang’s victory over Pantoja at UFC 323 may have eased Moreno’s title chase since Moreno has yet to face the current Burmese flyweight champ.
Mexican fans will undoubtedly support the new champion to defend his belt robustly, as controversy around Moreno and Taira means Pantoja will likely aim to reclaim the title before Moreno gets another shot.
Fan Take: This development is crucial for MMA enthusiasts, as Brandon Moreno remains a beloved figure in Mexico and a key player in the flyweight division. The changes in opponents not only shake up the card but could reshape the title landscape, offering fresh storylines and rivalry dynamics that keep the sport thrilling.
