In a striking showcase that firmly asserted his intent to reclaim the flyweight throne, Brandon Moreno delivered a one-sided performance against Amir Albazi at UFC Fight Night in Edmonton, Alberta. The unanimous decision victory, scored 50-45 across two judges and 49-46 by the third, underscores Moreno’s tactical evolution and refined striking approach, effectively marking his return to form following a brief hiatus post his split decision loss to Brandon Royval earlier in the year.
Moreno’s record now stands at 22 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, but the statistics tell a compelling story of dominance; he outstruck Albazi with a staggering tally of 124 to 56 significant strikes. This not only shows his striking volume but also highlights his ability to control the fight’s tempo and dictate exchanges, which were pivotal in stifling Albazi’s attempts to implement a wrestling-heavy strategy.
The fight played out as a striking clinic, with Moreno employing a strategic blend of reach and footwork to fend off any offensive wrestling from Albazi. In the second round, Moreno showcased his striking prowess by executing a head kick that visibly shook Albazi and beautifully extended his reach with well-timed jabs. Despite Albazi’s efforts to grapple, he found himself repeatedly thwarted as Moreno’s dexterity and composure allowed him to regain his footing and maintain an offensive edge that left little room for Albazi’s tactics.
As the fight progressed, it became increasingly apparent that Moreno’s striking was taking its toll. Albazi’s face began to show the wear of battle by Round 3, as his attempts to close the distance transformed into a chase where he was left exposed to Moreno’s combinations. The former champion took every opportunity to reinforce his dominance, proving that his skills were too much for the once-undefeated contender.
With this decisive win, Moreno not only halted a two-fight losing streak but also sent shockwaves through the flyweight division. Albazi’s first professional defeat brings his record to 17-1, critically derailing his championship aspirations. Presently, the flyweight division is witnessing intense rivalry, characterized by the impending championship showdown between Alexandre Pantoja and former RIZIN champion Kai Asakura set for UFC 310.
Additionally, contenders like Kai Kara-France and Royval linger in contention for title shots, yet Moreno is keen on recapturing his title and cementing his legacy by becoming the first three-time champion in the division’s history. His performance against Albazi may serve as a significant reminder to his peers that Moreno is very much a part of the title conversation.
The stakes were equally high in the co-main event as Erin Blanchfield faced off against Rose Namajunas, a name synonymous with excellence in the sport. Despite being on the back foot early in the bout, Blanchfield displayed remarkable resilience and adaptability. The former strawweight champion started strong, effectively leveraging her jab and footwork while also demonstrating impressive takedown defense.
Recognizing a need for change, Blanchfield shifted her approach by closing the distance and executing takedowns that limited Namajunas’ striking effectiveness. As the fight progressed, the judges saw it evenly matched heading into the final round. In a pivotal moment, Blanchfield pressed her advantage, executing a decisive takedown that ultimately secured her victory and moved her closer to a title shot as a ranked flyweight contender.
As both fighters head in different directions, the implications of their performances are monumental. Moreno’s win signifies a fierce comeback and a clear message that he is ready to reclaim his position at the summit of the flyweight rankings. For Albazi, it is a reality check, necessitating adjustments if he wishes to remain a contender within this competitive landscape. Meanwhile, Blanchfield’s victorious return solidifies her stature in the division as the young fighter seeks to make her mark.
In essence, UFC Fight Night in Edmonton was not just a battleground for victories; it was a pivotal moment reflective of the shifting dynamics in the flyweight division, with both Moreno and Blanchfield asserting themselves as formidable forces eyed for future title opportunities.