Brandon Moreno Nearly Retired Due to Stress from Overwhelming Responsibilities
Brandon Moreno, a notable figure in the UFC flyweight division, faced a pivotal moment in his career less than two years ago. After losing his championship title and suffering a second defeat to Brandon Royval, he contemplated retirement due to overwhelming stress. At just 31 years old, Moreno expressed much more than simple disappointment over the losses. The immense pressure of expectations from fans and the responsibilities of being a national hero in Mexico weighed heavily on him.
Brandon Moreno’s Break from MMA
Following these defeats, Moreno took a temporary break from mixed martial arts. He needed time to recharge mentally and physically, spending precious moments with his family. “I was super stressed and tired, and I just needed a little time off,” he remarked, highlighting his desire to reconnect with his loved ones. This short hiatus, lasting roughly eight months, ultimately rejuvenated his passion for fighting.
Upon his return, Moreno showcased exceptional skill by defeating Amir Albazi. He realized that training and competing in the octagon was his true calling. “Those moments where I was on the grind with my training partners really made me love the sport even more,” Moreno noted.
Upcoming Challenges and Title Aspirations
Moreno is now focused on earning his third championship reign as he prepares for a fight against Tatsuro Taira on the main card of UFC 323. A victory in this match could position him as a leading contender in the flyweight division, especially as Alexandre Pantoja is scheduled to defend his title against Joshua Van in the co-main event. Pantoja had previously defeated Moreno, adding an extra layer of motivation for him.
- Fight Schedule: Moreno vs. Taira at UFC 323
- Pantoja Title Defense: Against Joshua Van
- Moreno’s Recent Wins: Dominant decision over Amir Albazi
Despite his desire for revenge against Pantoja, Moreno emphasizes the importance of focusing on his current opponent. He knows that any missteps could derail his plans to reclaim the title. “I can’t get lost in potential future fights,” he explained. His commitment to consistency in performance is a new approach he hopes will guide him back to the championship.
Lessons Learned and Personal Growth
Reflecting on his career, Moreno acknowledges the complexities that surfaced after his initial title reign. He aims to handle the responsibilities of a champion more effectively this time around. “I’m just trying to be positive and ready for whatever happens,” he stated. His past experiences, including the threat of retirement and the pressures of the sport, have positioned him in a stronger mental state.
With his renewed focus, Moreno is enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead. He is determined to secure a victory over Taira and contemplates a future title fight with greater confidence. His journey highlights the resilience and passion that define his career. As he prepares for UFC 323, Moreno remains committed to proving he is ready to reclaim his place at the top of the flyweight division.
