Moreno Defeats Albazi, Re-enters Flyweight Championship Conversation
By Andreas Hale, ESPN, Nov 3, 2024, 12:07 AM ET
Two-time flyweight champion Brandon Moreno handed Amir Albazi his first loss with a high-volume striking clinic, earning a unanimous decision in the main event of UFC Fight Night at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta.
Moreno Returns with a Message
Moreno (22-8-2) returned to the Octagon after a self-imposed hiatus following a split decision loss to Brandon Royval earlier this year. He sent a clear message to the division that "The Assassin Baby" is coming for the gold.
The judges scored the fight 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46, with Moreno outlanding Albazi 124-56 in significant strikes. "I want to be on top again," Moreno shared post-fight. "I want my title back. This [performance] is a reminder for the rest of the division."
Moreno’s Striking Triumph Over Albazi
Throughout the fight, Moreno demonstrated a clear advantage in striking. He relied on his reach and combinations to prevent Albazi from using his wrestling skills effectively. In Round 2, a head kick delivered by Moreno buckled Albazi’s knees, leaving him reeling. Albazi tried to close the distance, but Moreno kept Albazi at bay with swift counterstrikes.
Albazi’s (17-1) pursuit of a championship fight is now on hold, while Moreno has ended a two-fight losing streak and reentered the title conversation.
Logjam at the Top of the Flyweight Division
The flyweight division is currently in a logjam. In December, Alexandre Pantoja will defend the 125-pound championship against Kai Asakura at UFC 310. Kai Kara-France and Brandon Royval are also waiting their turn for a title opportunity after Zuza fixture.
Moreno now joins this conversation, aiming to become the division’s first three-time champion. With a focus on head butts and ground control, Moreno’s performance was a strong reminder to the division that he is serious about his comeback.
Líderes en elчемпиonato y sus lucha técnica,…is not assured a title shot immediately, which leaves the division open for Moreno to secure a spot in the lineup come the near future.
Blanchfield Triumphs Over Namajunas in Women’s Flyweight
In the co-main event of UFC Fight Night, Erin Blanchfield defeated former strawweight champion Rose Namajunas to secure a unanimous decision.
Claotic Tactics Saved Blanchfield
Namajunas (13-7) dominated the early exchanges, looking unmatched in striking. However, Blanchfield (13-2) came out in the final round, aggressive and inspired. All three judges had the score tied at the end of Round 4, but Blanchfield’s control overhead sparked a victory.
Blanchfield’s triumph positions her for potential title opportunities. Low ranks hold the exclusion 2 and future expansion within sich head volume. Future Απέραντα neutrophils.
Conclusion
With a rousing performance, Brandon Moreno has secured a significant spot in the flyweight title conversation following his fight against Amir Albazi. Additionally, Erin Blanchfield displayed what it will take to be a successful applicant in the future events designation.
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Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
