The co-main event for UFC 303 features an electrifying featherweight bout between Diego Lopes and Brian Ortega.
This fight, set to take place on June 29, 2024, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, has garnered significant attention due to both fighters’ high-level grappling skills to the octagon.
Fighter Backgrounds
Diego Lopes: (23-6 MMA, 3-1 UFC) has been on a remarkable run, showcasing his exceptional jiu-jitsu skills with 11 submission victories in his career. Lopes is riding a three-fight win streak, with his most recent victory coming via submission against Sodiq Yusuff at UFC 300. Known for his aggressive grappling and submission acumen, Lopes is determined to use this fight as a springboard to title contention.
Brian Ortega: (16-3 MMA, 8-3 UFC), a former two-time title challenger, is equally renowned for his jiu-jitsu. Ortega, ranked No. 7 in the featherweight division, is coming off a submission win over Yair Rodriguez earlier this year. With 8 submission wins under his belt, Ortega is eager to solidify his position as one of the top featherweights in the UFC.
Fight Preview
This matchup is particularly intriguing because it pits two of the best submission artists in the featherweight division against each other. Fans and analysts are excited to see who will come out on top in this grappling-heavy contest. Both fighters have a knack for pulling off spectacular submissions, making this fight a must-watch for jiu-jitsu enthusiasts.
Lopes believes this fight could determine the best jiu-jitsu practitioner in the featherweight division. He is confident that a victory over Ortega will catapult him into the division’s upper echelons.
Predictions
The betting odds are close, reflecting the competitive nature of this bout. Diego Lopes is a slight favourite at -138, while Brian Ortega is an underdog at +110. This suggests that while Lopes is expected to win, the fight could easily go either way, given Ortega’s experience and skills (Odds Shark).
Key Factors to Watch:
- Grappling Exchanges: Both fighters are elite grapplers, so it will be fascinating to see who can impose their will in the submission game.
- Striking: While both are known for their ground game, their striking could be crucial in setting up takedowns and submissions.
- Cardio: Endurance will be key, as prolonged grappling exchanges can be exhausting.
UFC 303’s co-main event between Diego Lopes and Brian Ortega promises to be a thrilling encounter that could define the future trajectory of the featherweight division.
With both fighters’ lives on the line, fans can expect a high-stakes, high-skill battle showcasing the best mixed martial arts.
