Brian Ortega claims UFC avoids fighters who could ‘whoop us’

Brian Ortega has argued that the UFC strategically avoids signing elite fighters from rival promotions who could threaten its roster's dominance. Speaking on the podcast Anatomy of a Fighter, the former UFC title challenger suggested the promotion operates as a "marketing machine" rather than seeking the world's absolute best competitors.

Ortega's comments stem from his recent training partnership with A.J. McKee, the former Bellator champion now competing in both Rizin and the Professional Fighters League. McKee is set to challenge undefeated Rajabali Shaidullaev for the Rizin featherweight title and vacant PFL featherweight title at Super Rizin 5 on September 5 in Osaka, Japan. Working together in preparation for their respective bouts, Ortega (16-5) praised McKee's technical prowess and mindset, arguing that some UFC fighters would be outmatched by top talent outside the organization. "There are people outside [the UFC] that would whoop us, and they know it," Ortega said. "They are not inviting them."

Ortega will attempt to rebound from consecutive losses when he faces Renato "Money" Moicano (21-7) at UFC 331 on September 19 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The bout represents a significant test for "T-City" as he seeks to rebuild momentum in his career. McKee (25-2) enters his Rizin clash on a three-fight winning streak, while Shaidullaev (19-0) remains perfect with a 100% finishing rate, making the featherweight title unification bout one of the most intriguing cross-promotional matchups on the horizon.