Brandon Moreno delivered a championship-level performance at UFC Edmonton by defeating Amir Albazi, but he remains uncertain if it will secure him a title shot next, as he considers the possibility of needing another fight before challenging for the belt again.
Brandon Moreno’s performance at UFC Edmonton was top-notch, championship-worthy even. But the two-time champ isn’t convinced it’ll earn him a title shot just yet.
Moreno dominated Amir Albazi in a five-round battle, ending his two-fight losing streak with a unanimous decision win. “The Assassin Baby” expressed his willingness to face the winner of the upcoming flyweight title fight between Alexandre Pantoja and Kai Asakura, should the UFC extend the offer. Yet, he feels there might still be more work ahead for him.
“I don’t know, hopefully [I fight for the belt next],” Moreno mused at the post-fight press conference. He admitted, “I want to be honest with myself, I think, maybe, I have to fight one more time before the title.” The uncertainty lingers—what’s on the UFC’s mind? Perhaps they were wowed by his performance and will give him a shot. Who knows?
Brandon Royval is in the mix. Kai Kara-France is also eyeing that title opportunity. Moreno remains ready for any challenge thrown his way.
He’s faced Pantoja thrice and hasn’t won yet, including their last clash at UFC 290 in July 2023 when he lost his title. Then there was the split decision loss to Royval at UFC Mexico City in February.
Options abound for this exciting flyweight contender—potential third meetings with Royval or other top contenders loom large.
“I can get [a rematch] with Royval,” Moreno mentioned. He’s not too keen on fighting Kai again since he’s beaten him twice already but remains open if necessary. Tatsuro Taira is another possibility. And then there’s Kai Asakura—depending on his bout with Pantoja, he could be next.
“I don’t know, let’s see what happens,” Moreno concluded.