In the co-main event of UFC 303, Diego Lopes (23-6 MMA, 3-1 UFC) will face off against former UFC title challenger Brian Ortega (16-3 MMA, 8-3 UFC). Both fighters are renowned for their submission skills, boasting a combined total of 20 submission wins. This matchup could very well determine who holds the title of the best jiu-jitsu fighter in the UFC’s featherweight division.
“I think if the fight goes to the ground, he’s a black belt, I’m a black belt and both of us have the skills necessary to neutralize each other, but also the ability to test each other’s strengths,” Lopes told MMA Junkie in Spanish. “I definitely think this could define who’s got the best jiu-jitsu in the division.
“I remember when I got to the UFC and I was climbing up the division, many were already asking for this fight. Not right now, but in the future to see who’s got the best jiu-jitsu. I think this comes at a great moment, a pay-per-view card, International Fight Week, co-main event – what a great moment to see who’s got the best jiu-jitsu. It’s going to be a war.”
🚨 Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes is in the works for UFC 303 on June 29th.
(per @arielhelwani) pic.twitter.com/ltaZuOWXCv— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) June 13, 2024
The Jiu-Jitsu Showdown Between Diego Lopes and Brian Ortega
Diego Lopes, who has been in the UFC for just 13 months, has seen his career skyrocket. From climbing the rankings to gaining popularity with fans, he’s now co-headlining his first UFC pay-per-view event. His opponent, Brian Ortega, is known for his balance between switch stance striking and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu prowess. Ortega’s evolution as a fighter mirrors Lopes’ own journey, as both have improved their striking while maintaining their ground game excellence.
With only two weeks to prepare, both fighters face a challenging task. Whoever devises the best strategy will likely emerge victorious. Diego Lopes, motivated by the tough matchup, aims to prove himself against Ortega. A win here could propel him toward a title shot in the featherweight division.
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