Brian Ortega shows cut that forced him out of UFC 331, teases new fight booked for November

Brian Ortega has withdrawn from his UFC 331 bout against Renato Moicano scheduled for September 19 in Los Angeles, marking the second time the two fighters have been unable to meet. A cut over his left eye that required stitches forced the withdrawal just days before the event.

Ortega shared images and video of the injury on social media, expressing frustration with the timing. Despite being on weight and having completed what he described as one of his best training camps, the eye laceration made competition impossible. The Los Angeles native had been particularly eager to fight at home in front of family and supporters.

The withdrawal continues a difficult stretch for Ortega. He last competed in August 2025, when he suffered a decision loss to Aljamain Sterling. Combined with an earlier loss to Diego Lopes, Ortega now sits on a two-fight skid. The repeated injuries and cancellations—he also pulled out of UFC 326 in March due to injury concerns—have interrupted his momentum in the featherweight division.

However, Ortega signaled that his next opportunity is already locked in for November. He indicated that changes are coming to his training camp, with new additions to his coaching staff, and hinted at evolving his approach moving forward. The fighter thanked his supporters and pledged to return with renewed performance in the coming weeks.