Brian Ortega after UFC 266 (Credits: UFC)
Brian Ortega had his face damaged beyond recognition during his fight with Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 266
Alexander Volkanovski vs Brian Ortega is enough to turn any ‘MMA non-watcher’ into an instant fan.
The two featherweights put on a performance for the ages, in what is being hailed as one of the greatest fights in modern MMA history.
Although, Volkanovski earned a clear unanimous decision victory, Ortega came inches close to victory with two perfect submission holds – from which Volkanovski escaped spectacularly.
It was only after this, Volkanovski terrorized Ortega with his ground and pound. At the end of the third round, Ortega could hardly get up.
In a parallel universe, Ortega would have submitted Volk in round 3 and eventually won the featherweight title.
Volkanovski reigned supreme with a unanimous decision victory in the end.
The ground and pound Volkanovski unleashed almost blinded Ortega. He could barely see through his right eye. His nose was busted open. His orbital bones were shattered.
It seemed like deja-vu at one point, as the health officials and referee Herb Dean began inspecting Ortega. A possible TKO due to doctor stoppage loomed. But once Ortega provided an assurance that he could see, he was allowed to carry on.
However, he continued his dog fight until the very end, throwing some late strikes, almost stunning Volkanovski in the dying seconds.
Here is the lion-hearted Ortega giving his post-fight interview following his warrior performance. His shattered face is clearly visible here:
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