The co-main event at Noche UFC features a compelling flyweight showdown between former two-time UFC champion Brandon Moreno and surging submission specialist Joseph Morales. Moreno is looking to snap a two-fight losing streak and re-enter the title conversation, while Morales enters the biggest fight of his career riding a lengthy winning streak and carrying significant momentum.
Brandon Moreno
Last 3 Bouts
Lose. Lone’er Kavanagh – Unanimous Decision
Lose. Tatsuro Taira – TKO (Punches, Round 2)
Win. Steve Erceg – Unanimous Decision
Strengths
Elite championship experience
Excellent boxing and combinations
Dangerous submission game
Outstanding cardio
High fight IQ
Proven ability to fight five rounds
Durable and battle-tested against elite competition
Weaknesses
Enters on a two-fight losing streak
Can become overly aggressive and abandon his jab
Has absorbed significant damage throughout his career
Defensive lapses have been exposed in recent fights
Pressure to return to title contention may affect decision-making
Keys to Victory
Establish the jab early
Mix striking with wrestling
Push a high pace over three rounds
Stay disciplined defensively
Avoid prolonged grappling exchanges where Morales can hunt submissions
Use championship experience to control momentum swings
Joseph Morales
Last 3 Bouts
Win. Matt Schnell – Submission – UFC Fight Night (November 2025)
Win. Jake Hadley – Submission – UFC Fight Night (2025)
Win. Denys Bondar – Submission – UFC Fight Night (2024)
Strengths
Elite submission ability
Strong wrestling foundation
Relentless pace
Excellent back-taking skills
Seven-fight winning streak
Confidence from recent UFC success
Dangerous whenever the fight hits the mat
Weaknesses
Less experience against elite opposition
Limited striking compared to Moreno
Has spent much of his career outside the rankings
Can struggle when forced into extended striking battles
Has not faced a former UFC champion in his recent run
Keys to Victory
Pressure Moreno from the opening bell
Force grappling exchanges
Attack submissions during scrambles
Slow Moreno’s striking rhythm
Invest in body work and leg kicks
Avoid getting drawn into a boxing match
Odds
Brandon Moreno -102
Joseph Morales -124
