Who Are Brian Ortega’s Coaches Heading Into UFC 266?

Published 09/21/2021, 1:06 PM EDT

Brian Ortega is set to take on Alexander Volkanovski this weekend at the UFC 266 pay-per-view. This will be Ortega’s second shot at the 145 lbs gold as he has already challenged the former champion, Max Holloway, once at UFC 231 for the belt. Ortega came up short on that occasion.

However, he looked massively improved on his return after suffering his first career loss. He outclassed Chan Sung-Jung to earn his shot against Volkanovski. recently, at the UFC 266 countdown video, Ortega introduced fans to his coaching team. ‘T-City’ also explained how his trainers have played a huge role in him getting back at the top after his loss to Holloway.

Article continues below this ad

“The new team that I have now is in my opinion the best thing that’s ever happened in my career. I’ve the guy that’s been the longest Rener Gracie. He’s been in my corner for 17 years. I have Mike Saffaie, the strength and conditioning coach. Coach Paul Herrera, he is the wrestling coach. Tiki Ghosn is the manager. Jason park is my Muay-Thai coach. Jesus Avila boxing coach,” said Ortega.

Can Brian Ortega finally become a UFC champion at UFC 266?

Ortega will have a shot at redemption as he takes on Volkanovski this weekend. He has previously managed to challenge for the belt once already. But Holloway gave the then-undefeated Ortega a reality check on that occasion. The former champion was truly a step ahead of his opponent in every aspect in that fight.

Article continues below this ad

But, The Korea Zombie fight saw a completely new version of Ortega. He was a fighter that fans haven’t seen beforehand. Composure, skill, patience, everything was on display from Ortega that night. If he can pull off a performance of the same caliber, he might just be able to become the UFC featherweight champion this weekend. However, Volkanovski is on a different level of his own.

Nevertheless, fans are in for a barn-burner when the Octagon door closes this weekend. Who eventually comes out on top as the winner of the contest, remains to be seen.

Article continues below this ad

“I Want to Be a Martial Artist for a Long Time”- Valentina Shevchenko Plans to Fight Past the Age of Fifty

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Apratim Banerjee is an MMA author for EssentiallySports and has been writing professionally for almost a year. Before his current gig, Apratim worked as a UFC writer for Sportskeeda. A long-time MMA fan, Apratim has developed a critical eye for the sport that has helped him transfer his vast knowledge to his copies and give hardcore and casual readers a detailed insight into the fights and fighters.

Who Are Brian Ortega’s Coaches Heading Into UFC 266?

Can Brian Ortega finally become a UFC champion at UFC 266?

Trending

Unfortunate Circumstances Unravelled After Ryan Garcia Drug Testing Controversy Ends; UFC Legend Sheds Light on Sean O’Malley’s Troubles

“UFC Is Scrambled”: Dana White’s $20M From Conor McGregor Fight Could be in Jeopardy as Daniel Cormier Hands a Solution for UFC 303

Joe Rogan’s Guest Ends Debate on Ryan Garcia’s Drug Test – “Even if It Was Trace…”

“He’s Reckless” – Joe Rogan Brands Tony Hinchcliffe as “Best” Roaster Despite Controversy at Netflix’s Tom Brady Roast

Years After Canelo Alvarez Expressed an Interest in Jorge Masvidal, ‘Gamebred’ Claims He’s Open to Fighting Mexican Star – “It Would Be an Honor”