Brandon Moreno, the two-time former UFC flyweight champion, has decided to take a step back from Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) to rejuvenate. Following a split decision defeat to Brandon Royval at UFC Mexico City in February, Moreno, aged 30, made it clear through an eight-minute Instagram video on Monday that he isn’t hanging up his gloves for good but is in need of a hiatus. This break comes on the heels of his first back-to-back losses since 2018.
“I’ve hit a mental limit and I’m exhausted,” Moreno shared, his words translated from Spanish by MMA Junkie’s Danny Segura. “This isn’t a farewell, but rather a request for patience. Allow me time to let my body and, importantly, my mind, recover. After a similar break in the past, I returned to claim the world championship. I believe I can replicate that success and embark on a winning streak upon my return. I’m confident in my exceptional fighting skills and my potential to reclaim the championship.”
Since rejoining the UFC in 2019 for his second tenure, Moreno (21-8-2) has been a pivotal figure in the UFC flyweight championship landscape. He secured the title twice by defeating Deiveson Figueiredo in a four-fight saga spanning from 2020 to 2023, only to lose the belt to Alexandre Pantoja by a split decision last July. Despite being a prime contender for a rematch with Pantoja, Moreno’s chance slipped away following another split decision loss, this time to Royval.
Moreno’s management confirmed to MMA Fighting’s Damon Martin that the announcement merely signifies a pause from MMA, with no implications of retirement.
In his heartfelt message, Moreno expressed his mixed feelings, acknowledging the support and love he received during his last fight, yet also sharing his frustration over the recent outcomes. “Even a month after the fight, I’m still processing it. Despite a strong camp and my best efforts, the wins didn’t come. These losses, peculiar as they are, still count as losses, and it’s clear I have work to do,” Moreno reflected.
He continued, “I’m at a point where, despite my dedication and hard work, the results aren’t there, and it’s incredibly disheartening. Beyond the technical aspects, I’m simply weary of the constant media attention, repetitive questions, and unrelenting pressure. It’s not just one thing; it’s the accumulation of everything over the last few years that has taxed my mind. I’m not stepping away from MMA entirely, but I do need to take a break, spend time with my family, and just be a regular person for a while.”
Moreno concluded with a message of hope and determination, “This isn’t goodbye. Just be patient and let me recover. I’ve come back stronger before, and I believe I can do it again. I’m committed to finding my way back, to rise again, and to reclaim the championship. I just need some time to rest and heal.”
In his closing thoughts, Moreno highlighted the success of his fellow Mexican fighters at the February event and expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from his fans. “I leave this break with the promise to keep fighting, to find the right path forward, and to do everything in my power to stand tall once again. I’m determined to become a champion once more. All I need now is some time to rest my body and mind.”