Here’s a bold statement: Brandon Moreno is ready to step into the octagon on just a moment’s notice to fight for the UFC flyweight title at UFC 323. But here’s where it gets controversial—while most fighters might hesitate to take such a risk, Moreno is all in, even if it means facing the champion with minimal preparation. Is this sheer dedication or a recipe for disaster? Let’s dive in.
This weekend, the UFC flyweight title will be on the line at UFC 323, taking place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event, available on pay-per-view and streaming platforms like ESPN+ and Disney+, features a stacked card. In the co-main event, champion Alexandre Pantoja defends his title against Joshua Van, but Moreno (23-8-2 MMA, 11-4-2 UFC) is prepared to step up if either fighter encounters last-minute issues. Before that, Moreno faces Japan’s Tatsuro Taira in a highly anticipated matchup on the main card.
And this is the part most people miss—Moreno isn’t just showing up to fight; he’s making championship weight at Friday’s official weigh-ins, just in case. Injuries, weight misses, and other unforeseen events have derailed title fights in the past, and Moreno wants to be ready. “For the belt, I’ll do anything,” he told Hablemos MMA in Spanish. “It wouldn’t be ideal, but if they call me, I’ll be prepared.” Yet, he admits, “Both Pantoja and Van are reliable when it comes to making weight, so I’m focusing on Tatsuro.”
Moreno’s confidence isn’t unwarranted. Fresh off unanimous decision wins over top contenders Amir Albazi and Steve Erceg, he’s riding a wave of momentum. A victory over Taira would likely secure him a title shot, capping a three-fight winning streak. But here’s the twist: while Moreno expects Pantoja to retain the title, he’s not counting out Van. “Van has a superpower—youth,” Moreno noted. “He fights with reckless abandon, full of confidence, and he’s living his dream. I thought Royval would beat him, but I was wrong. This fight is intriguing.”
Here’s the controversial question: Is Moreno’s willingness to step in as a backup a smart career move or a risky gamble? On one hand, it showcases his dedication and readiness. On the other, it could leave him vulnerable if he’s forced to fight for the title without proper preparation. What do you think? Let us know in the comments—is Moreno’s strategy bold or borderline reckless?
