Brian Ortega was scheduled to make his long-awaited UFC lightweight debut this weekend (Saturday, September 19, 2026) UFC 331 against a former enemy in his hometown of Los Angeles, California Renato Moicano. After a tough stretch in recent years that saw him lose four of five fights and almost punchable weightthere was hope that a move up to 155 pounds could rejuvenate his career.
Instead it was Ortega forced to retreat on Monday. At first, the exact reason for his withdrawal was unclear, but images of Ortega a bandage on his brow certainly seemed to offer an explanation. Shortly after, Ortega took to social media to clear the air and give some insight into his fighting future.
“It hurts,” Ortega wrote on Instagram. “I have to pull out of the fight because of eye stitches. I’ve made weight, I’ve been training my butt and it’s honestly been one of the best camps I’ve ever had. I was really looking forward to fighting at home in Los Angeles in front of my family, friends and everyone who supported me.
“My next fight is coming up soon so I’m back to training. We’ve brought some new people into camp and I’m excited to show you guys a new side of me. Thanks to everyone who’s supported me through it all. See you in November.”
Renato Moicano has already received his new game: Halloween main event versus the rising Aussie Tom Nolan. As for Ortega, it looks like “T-City” will be back in November and he probably already has an opponent in mind.
Hopefully there won’t be any more fight week mishaps.
