Brian Ortega Drops Surprising Claim About UFC Fighters’ Credibility

The UFC has become one of the biggest mixed martial arts promotions in the world. Over the years, the promotion has witnessed some impeccable fighters show up. Surprisingly, according to Brian Ortega, there are a lot of great fighters outside of the UFC who would pose a big threat to Dana White’s current roster. 

Brian Ortega Questions UFC’s Strategy 

The former featherweight title contender recently felt that the UFC doesn't want certain fighters to join the promotion. Following a training session with A.J. McKee, Ortega accused Dana White and company acting more like a marketing genius than focusing on scouting the best MMA talents from all over the world. 

Ortega said, “The UFC is just a marketing machine. There people outside that would whoop us, and they know it. They are not inviting them." He added that genuine technique and heart cannot be faked, saying McKee is at the highest level despite fighting outside the promotion.” 

This is not the first time a fighter has spoken against the promotion. Recently, Paulo Costa was also upset with how UFC denied him a chance to compete for the interim light heavyweight title. Costa also accused the UFC of maintaining double standards with their rankings, citing Alex Pereira’s presence in the LHW rankings despite his move to HW. 

What’s Next For Brian Ortega? 

Ortega isn't having a good time in the UFC at the moment. After securing a knockout victory against Yair Rodriguez back in 2024, things fell apart badly. Trying to gain some ground, the 35-year-old lost back-to-back bouts. 

He lost against Diego Lopes at UFC 306, which was followed by another setback against Aljamain Sterling. Both these losses pegged back his chances of competing for the title significantly, however, Ortega does have a chance to bounce back. 

In UFC 331, Ortega will be up against Renato Moicano. If the 35-year-old manages to get things right, things might just start to change for the better.