Brian Ortega is done talking, he’s ready to face Alexander Volkanovski on Saturday night.
Ortega challenges opposing The Ultimate Fighter 29 coach Volkanovski for the featherweight championship in the main event of UFC 266 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas tomorrow. “T-City,” who gets his second opportunity to become champion, earned top contender status with a dominant unanimous decision win over Chan Sung Jung at UFC Fight Island 6 this past October.
Following the final face-off between champion and challenger at the UFC 266 ceremonial weigh-ins, Ortega made it clear—especially with the constant trash talk from his opponent throughout the build to the bout—he is more concerned with hurting Volkanovski than becoming champion.
“No more words,” Ortega told Jon Anik. “Tomorrow, f*ck the belt, I’m coming for your head.”
Volkanovski, who holds back-to-back wins over Max Holloway to become champion and in his first title defense, seemed to like Ortega’s prediction, perhaps feeling like he’s getting under his rival’s skin.
“[Ortega] is gonna bring it, I want him coming guns blazing,” Volkanovski said. “Everyone back home in Australia, stay strong. I’m bringing that belt back to Australia.”
Check out the intense staredown in the video above and more ceremonial weigh-in highlights below.
Valentina Shevchenko vs. Lauren Murphy staredown
Nick Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler staredown
