UPDATE: Brian Ortega’s highly anticipated move to lightweight has been postponed once again due to injuries. The former featherweight title challenger announced his withdrawal from the scheduled bout against Renato Moicano at UFC 326, which is set for March 7, 2024, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Ortega, aged 34, has been vocal about transitioning to the 155-pound division for over a year, but persistent injuries have derailed his plans. In an Instagram post made just hours ago, he reassured fans, stating, “I’m OK, health is good, no surgeries or nothing crazy like that. But I do need to take a little bit of some time off to nurse these injuries that I have right now.”
This latest setback marks another chapter in Ortega’s tumultuous journey. He initially aimed to fight Diego Lopes at UFC 303 in June 2024 but had to withdraw just days before the event due to medical complications arising from his weight cut. That bout was eventually rescheduled, highlighting the challenges Ortega has faced.
Despite the disappointment, Ortega emphasized the importance of healing. “It just sucks, where it’s not crazy like that where I need to have surgery, but I have to rest it and let it heal and chill, and get some physical therapy,” he explained. His fans have been eagerly awaiting this move, and now they will have to be patient as he focuses on recovery.
The UFC has yet to announce a replacement for Moicano, leaving fans and analysts questioning who might step in to face the seasoned fighter. Ortega’s history in the octagon includes two unsuccessful attempts to capture the featherweight title in 2018 and 2021, and his transition to lightweight has been seen as a crucial next step in his career.
As the MMA community watches closely, the timeline for Ortega’s return remains uncertain. Fans are left wondering how this injury may affect his future aspirations in the sport.
Stay tuned for more updates on Brian Ortega’s condition and the unfolding situation surrounding UFC 326. This story is developing, and we will provide the latest information as it becomes available.
