Former two-time UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno has finally spoken out after his controversial second-round TKO loss to rising contender Tatsuro Taira at UFC 323 inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The stoppage sparked loud debates across the MMA world. Many fans felt the referee stepped in too early, especially given Moreno’s toughness and the fact that he has survived far worse moments throughout his career.
Moreno didn’t respond immediately on fight night. Instead, he waited two days before addressing the moment.
“Hey guys, I’m just here to tell you I’m fine and everything is great. I hadn’t posted anything because yesterday was my birthday,” Moreno said on Instagram. “I just wanted to let you know that I’m doing really, really well. So, yeah, just reflecting a little bit on the fight, honestly, who knows, right? Personally, I think the referee stopped it too soon, but look, I could have just stayed there and taken extra punishment, or maybe, if I did have the chance to get away, I could have made a comeback, you never know.”
Moreno admitted the entire moment felt strange, but he kept his focus on what comes next.
“It was a very strange fight, but what remains is I have to keep my head up, and I have to keep moving forward and enjoy the end of the year, enjoy the holidays, enjoy time with family, and look forward to 2026. Whatever comes, whatever comes strong. Blessings to everyone. Let’s go.”
The loss snapped his two-fight winning streak, which included solid victories over Amir Albazi and Steve Erceg. It also marked the first time in his career that the Mexican superstar had ever been finished, a major shock considering his reputation for surviving absolute wars.
Despite the setback, Brandon Moreno remains the biggest name in the flyweight division, and he’s still only one big win away from sliding right back into title contention. And with Alexandre Pantoja also losing his belt at UFC 323, the flyweight picture has suddenly opened up again.
For now, the MMA world waits to see when Moreno returns. One thing is certain, he’s not done.
