Tatsuro Taira Confident Victory Over Moreno Secures Title Shot
Tatsuro Taira, a prominent prospect in the UFC flyweight division, aims to secure his title shot after UFC 323. At just 25 years old, Taira holds an impressive record of 17 victories and 1 defeat, including seven wins in the UFC. His upcoming fight against former champion Brandon Moreno is a pivotal moment in his career.
Taira vs. Moreno: A Defining Matchup
The fight against Moreno represents one of Taira’s most significant opportunities. Taira expressed his excitement about facing Moreno, stating, “Brandon Moreno is the best fighter that I’ve faced since coming to the UFC.” This bout on the pay-per-view main card places Taira at a crossroads, as a victory could propel him into the title contention spotlight.
Recent Performance and Career Context
- Age: 25
- Professional Record: 17 wins, 1 loss
- UFC Wins: 7
- Last Fight: Submission victory after suffering his first career loss
- Loss: Split-decision to Brandon Royval in 2024
Despite experiencing his first professional loss, Taira believes it liberated him from the pressure of maintaining an undefeated record. He noted, “I became free of the pressure that I have to be perfect and stay undefeated.” This mindset could provide him with an edge as he prepares for his encounter with Moreno.
Taira’s Strategy Against Moreno
In anticipation of his fight with Moreno, Taira is preparing for all possible scenarios. He respects Moreno’s skills and achievements but believes he can exploit vulnerabilities in Moreno’s style. He remarked, “He is an all-rounder with tough striking. But his style carries some roughness around the edges.”
Looking Ahead: Title Shot Implications
Following Taira and Moreno’s fight, the flyweight title will be contested between Alexandre Pantoja and Joshua Van. Taira is confident in Pantoja’s ability to defend his title and predicts a finish in the second or third round. Should he secure a victory over Moreno, Taira foresees himself as the next contender for the flyweight championship in 2026.
With aspirations to rise to the top, Taira is focused on earning his place as the next contender in the flyweight division. He states, “I will take a big win so the UFC can be confident enough to say the next contender is Taira.”
