In an electrifying main event at UFC Fight Night 246 held in Edmonton, Alberta, former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno showcased his resilience and skill, overpowering Amir Albazi to secure a decisive victory. This bout marked an important turning point for Moreno, who sought redemption after facing setbacks in his previous fights. With a unanimous decision victory, displaying scores of 49-46, 50-45, and 50-45, Moreno reaffirmed his status in the 125-pound division, rejuvenating his quest for the flyweight title.
The match commenced at a measured tempo as both fighters looked to establish their rhythm. Moreno, known for his boxing prowess, relied on his left hand to dictate the fight, adeptly using it to set up combinations that effectively cut through Albazi’s defenses. Meanwhile, Albazi attempted to integrate leg kicks into his strategy but struggled to find his footing in the face of Moreno’s consistent pressure. The fight’s opening round saw Moreno’s striking skills shine, as he clearly outclassed Albazi, leaving him bruised and on the back foot.
As the fighters transitioned into Round 2, Moreno’s success surged with a well-timed left head kick that visibly wobbled Albazi. Despite Albazi’s efforts to bounce back, Moreno continued to press the action, turning moments of adversity into opportunities to dominate. Whether it was accurately landing punches or deftly maneuvering away from takedown attempts, Moreno’s gameplay was a spectacle of striking finesse.
Round 3 saw a sloppier yet more aggressive Moreno, who intensified his pursuit of a pivotal knockout. With Albazi visibly bruised, Moreno seized the moment to engage further, bouncing off the canvass and pushing the pace of the fight. Albazi’s corner implored their fighter to increase his aggressiveness as the bout entered the championship rounds. However, Moreno demonstrated his remarkable ability to adjust, responding to Albazi’s strikes with precision and authority.
Although Albazi found openings to land several significant punches, Moreno remained unyielding. His ability to control the center of the octagon and dictate the rhythm of the fight proved instrumental, showcasing the experience and strategy that define a former champion. As Moreno approached the fourth round, it became evident that he was not only fighting for victory but also showcasing his elite-level fighting IQ.
With a championship spirit, Moreno entered the final round as if he were the one trailing on the scorecards. Following a brief pause due to an accidental eye poke, Moreno reignited the crowd with a series of powerful punches that echoed throughout the arena. The Canadian audience reverberated with cheers, affirming Moreno as the fan favorite amid a thrilling atmosphere.
As the round progressed, Moreno continued attacking Albazi, who now faced an uphill battle requiring a knockout to turn the tide. The intensity escalated, and Moreno, neither fatigued nor complacent, delivered a rolling thunder kick in the closing seconds, emphasizing his showmanship and desire to end the fight with a memorable finish. This audacious move encapsulated Moreno’s attitude as an athlete willing to take risks to entertain and triumph.
This victory not only halted Moreno’s two-fight losing streak—where he faced decisions that left questions unanswered—but it also reinvigorated his aspirations for the flyweight title. During the post-fight interview, Moreno expressed his yearning for a hearty meal after the grueling bout but made it clear that regaining his title was his primary motivation. His earnest demeanor and positivity reflect the relatable and spirited nature of Moreno, undoubtedly soothing the minds of fans and reinstating his role as a championship contender.
In contrast, Amir Albazi faced a disappointing setback, marking just his second professional loss and ending his six-fight winning streak. The fight served as a learning experience for him, illustrating the steep learning curve present within elite-level MMA competition.
The event delivered an exceptional array of fights beyond Moreno’s headline performance, with several bouts showcasing new talent and the tenacity of fighters across various weight classes. The highlights of UFC Fight Night 246 will undoubtedly resonate, but it is Moreno’s return to glory that stands out, presenting an important chapter in his career as he navigates the path back to championship glory.
Brandon Moreno’s journey continues to captivate fans, solidifying his place within the competitive landscape of mixed martial arts, all while aiming to reclaim his former title.