With the air turning crisp in “The Great White North,” the UFC is set to make a much-anticipated return to Canada for UFC Fight Night 246 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta. This event holds special significance, as it showcases a pivotal flyweight showdown between the former champion Brandon Moreno and rising contender Amir Albazi. As we explore this fight night, we’ll dive into not only the electrifying main event but also the notable matchups populating the card.
The eyes of the MMA world will be fixated on Brandon Moreno as he faces Amir Albazi in what many consider a title eliminator bout in the flyweight division. Moreno, pursuing redemption after his storied rivalry with Deiveson Figueiredo, brings an impressive MMA record of 21 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws to the octagon. Known for his tenacity and grappling prowess, he has often been highlighted as a fighter who embodies the spirit of perseverance, having reclaimed the title and created history along the way as the first UFC champion born in Mexico.
Albazi, on the other hand, is an undefeated force within the UFC, boasting an MMA record of 17 wins and just 1 defeat. His four-fight winning streak is the longest currently active in the flyweight division, which gives him significant momentum heading into this fight. With soaring confidence and a burgeoning reputation, Albazi represents a major threat to Moreno’s ambitions. This encounter promises not just a clash of styles but also a historical reckoning for both fighters.
Brandon Moreno’s career is exceptional not merely for his titles but for the records he has established. Notably, he is a fighter who holds the distinction of being involved in the rare event of four championship fights against a single opponent—Figueiredo. This unique rivalry has propelled both fighters into the annals of UFC history, while Moreno’s accolades extend to being one of only seven fighters to achieve a stoppage victory in the title fight.
His resilient mentality shines through his record following his return to the UFC in September 2019, where he has accrued an impressive six stoppage victories in the flyweight division. Among these accolades, his technique in submissions is noteworthy: he is ranked fourth in the division for submission victories. Moreno is widely regarded as an exciting fighter to watch, and fans will be eager to see if his versatile skill set can prove overwhelming against a rising talent like Albazi.
Amir Albazi may not have the same legacy as Moreno, but he could become a household name if he continues his current trajectory. With a perfect streak of victories within the UFC, Albazi has rapidly ascended the ranks. His grappling game, anchored by his ability to secure takedowns and capitalize on positioning, poses a fascinating challenge to Moreno’s grappling strength. The prospect of facing a seasoned veteran like Moreno may work to motivate Albazi further, presenting an opportunity to solidify his place among the elite.
Moreover, fighting on a stage like UFC Fight Night 246 is crucial not only for personal glory but also to inspire a younger generation of fighters, especially in a country known for its rich MMA talent pool.
As fans gear up for this marquee matchup, they should also be aware of other significant fights that promise to add excitement to the event. One such fight is Erin Blanchfield taking on Rose Namajunas. Blanchfield, who has showcased her submission skills in the women’s flyweight division, looks to solidify her status while Namajunas—an accomplished fighter in her own right—seeks to find her footing after transitioning divisions.
Equally compelling will be the bout featuring heavyweights like Derrick Lewis, known for his knockout power and impressive fight history. His track record places him among the legends of the heavyweight scene. Coupled with rising stars such as Marc-Andre Barriault and Trevin Giles, the supporting matches in this fight card promise to deliver fireworks and potentially shift the balance of power in respective divisions.
UFC Fight Night 246 is poised to deliver a gripping evening of mixed martial arts, weaving together compelling narratives of ambition, legacy, and the quest for greatness. Whether it’s Moreno’s revival in the flyweight title pursuit, Albazi’s aspirations as an unblemished contender, or the presence of familiar names that continue to electrify audiences, this event in Edmonton is more than just another fight night—it’s a showcase of where the sport stands and where it could head. As the bouts unfold, fans are sure to witness not only the skills of elite athletes but also the heart and determination that align with the spirit of the UFC.