In a thrilling main event at UFC Fight Night 246 held in Edmonton, Alberta, former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno showcased a masterclass performance against Amir Albazi, marking his triumphant return to the win column. The bout served not only as a testament to Moreno’s striking skills and durability but also highlighted the strategic execution that ultimately led him to victory. With the judges scoring the contest 49-46, 50-45, and 50-45 in favor of Moreno, this fight definitively reaffirmed his place among the elite fighters in the flyweight division.
Moreno’s record now stands at 22 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, with a well-deserved score of 10-5-2 in the UFC. In contrast, Albazi’s record fell to 17 wins against two losses following this bout, and while he had previously captured public attention with an impressive six-fight winning streak, this match starkly revealed the disparities in skill and experience present in the octagon.
From the onset, the fight unfolded with both fighters establishing their striking range through a series of measured jabs. Moreno relied heavily on his left hand, utilizing it as a key instrument in creating openings to unleash combinations. Meanwhile, Albazi attempted to counter with leg kicks but fell victim to the former champion’s effective striking early in the fight.
The second round saw a pivotal moment unfold when Moreno landed a well-timed left head kick that visibly shook Albazi. The momentum shifted in Moreno’s favor, allowing him to dictate the pace and control the floor of the octagon. Despite Albazi’s attempts to regain composure, Moreno maintained relentless pressure, showcasing striking that not only damaged his opponent but also captivated an audience eager for action.
As the bout progressed, Moreno exhibited signs of calculated aggression, with occasional lapses in defense as he sought a highlight-reel finish. Though he occasionally overextended himself, Moreno was able to quickly reset and reestablish control, demonstrating both his striking prowess and defensive savvy. The crowd in Edmonton was electrified, cheering enthusiastically for every powerful exchange that Moreno executed.
Heading into the championship rounds, Albazi’s corner urged him to increase his offensive output. However, the challenge of facing a loosened Moreno, who was not only confident but also clever in his fight strategy, proved daunting. The fourth round featured Albazi stepping up his game, but the exchanges remained highly competitive, with Moreno effectively countering and forcing Albazi to adhere to a pace he struggled to maintain.
By the final round, it was clear that Albazi needed a finish to turn the tide of the match. However, Moreno, rather than showing signs of fatigue, approached the final moments as if he were trailing on the scorecards. After a brief stop due to an accidental eye poke, he connected with a significant punch that echoed throughout Rogers Place, leaving the audience in rapture.
As the rounds wound down, Moreno’s relentless pursuit culminated in a final flurry of strikes, showcasing his desire to end the fight impressively. The spectacle culminated in him attempting a dazzling rolling thunder kick, an audacious move that only a fighter of his caliber would dare to execute in such a critical moment.
This decisive victory did not merely rejuvenate Moreno’s career but also set the stage for his ambitions to reclaim the flyweight title. His post-fight interview displayed his genuine personality, with humorous remarks about his immediate craving for food juxtaposed against his serious intention to dominate the 125-pound division once more.
For Albazi, this match served as a harsh reminder of the competitive nature of the UFC’s flyweight class. Despite his previous successes, the struggle to find rhythm in the fight ultimately contributed to the end of his winning streak. Moving forward, he will need to reassess and potentially adapt his strategy to remain a relevant contender in the division.
The night will be remembered not just for Moreno’s stellar performance but equally for its implications in the flyweight landscape. With Moreno expressing clear ambitions and Albazi’s future in question, the next chapter for both fighters will be eagerly watched by fans and analysts alike.