Brian Ortega says Renato Moicano is “taking a chance” by fighting him at lightweight, and admits losses have made him consider retirement.
Two‑time UFC title contender Brian Ortega says he’s entering UFC 331 with a clear mind, a lighter heart, and absolutely nothing to lose. Speaking exclusively with CanadaCasino, the 35‑year‑old opened up on his move to lightweight, his long‑awaited rematch with Renato Moicano, and the toll that elite‑level defeats have taken on him over the years.
Ortega famously submitted Moicano back in 2017, but he insists there’s no bad blood, just two fighters at very different points in their careers. “We fought, I hugged him, and he was like ‘Alright bro, get away from me,’” Ortega laughed. “He felt like he got caught. At this level, one mistake costs you.”
Now meeting again at 155, Ortega believes Moicano is the one rolling the dice. “He’s taking a chance by risking his ranking against me. I find myself in a situation where I have nothing to lose, while he has his position and establishment at 155 on the line.”
A new chapter at lightweight
Ortega says the move up was driven by the UFC and his own desire to reset physically. “The UFC wanted me to go to 155 to test it out and see how my body reacts. We sat down, talked, and I said let’s do it. When they offered Moicano, I said, ‘Let’s do it’ again.”
He’s not chasing names yet — but he hinted at a “crazy fight” already being discussed behind the scenes. “I make it very easy for the UFC, I just say yes. I’ve been offered one crazy fight that I can’t speak about yet because it’s still going to happen.”
Losses, pressure, and the thought of retirement
Ortega’s career has been defined by razor‑close title fights and brutal wars, and he admits the emotional toll has been real. “In real life, unlike a video game, taking those losses takes a toll,” he said. “I used to want to be seen, but now I’m back to just loving fighting and testing myself.”
He also revealed that family conversations have made him consider stepping away. “My eldest son, who is about to turn 14, told me, ‘Just fight out your contract and come home, man.’ When your kids tell you that, it really makes you think.”
Respect for Gaethje, interest in Topuria vs Pimblett
Ortega praised Justin Gaethje’s historic win at UFC Freedom 250, calling it “admirable” and “inspiring.” He also shut down any talk of fighting Paddy Pimblett, but said he’d pay to watch Pimblett vs Ilia Topuria. “There’s been enough history and trash talk. With questions arising from Ilia’s first loss, it would be a great test.”
Final thoughts heading into fight week
Despite years of injuries and setbacks, Ortega says he feels better than expected. “My body has been pretty good. I’m still training and pushing hard and I feel great. I see guys like Gaethje, Moicano, Pereira, they’re older than me. It’s like, okay, cool. We still got enough.”
Check back here later this week for more UFC 331 build up.