Ahead of his move to the lightweight division, Brian Ortega has been actively training with fellow fighters Arman Tsarukyan and Marlon Vera.
Ortega, who has faced recent challenges in his career, losing four of his last five bouts, has decided to transition to the 155-pound weight class. His previously scheduled fight against Renato Moicano at UFC 326 was unfortunately canceled due to an injury he sustained.
Arman Tsarukyan and Brian Ortega Share Insights After Training Together
In a recent training camp, Ortega, affectionately known as “T-City,” worked closely with Arman Tsarukyan and a group of other skilled fighters. Following their grappling session, Tsarukyan, a renowned grappler, expressed his admiration for Ortega’s skills. When asked if he had any advice for Ortega, Tsarukyan humbly stated:
“It was great… He [Ortega] should be the one giving me advice, not the other way around.”
Ortega, in turn, described his experience training grappling with Arman Tsarukyan as akin to a high-level chess match. He commented:
“It’s just a different level. It’s at the highest level. It forces you to think more, do more… I haven’t been pushed with this level of technique, which is incredibly impressive. I aim to adapt to this environment.”
Ortega also shared that training with Tsarukyan, Marlon Vera, and others at Santo Studio has been a humbling experience. He added:
“It’s humbling… You show a lot of respect and gratitude, and demonstrate that you can contribute value. I’m not hesitant to offer help, just as you are providing it to me. It’s a fantastic dynamic.”
Tsarukyan is currently preparing as a backup for the UFC Freedom 250 main event, which features a lightweight title unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. Ortega, on the other hand, does not have a confirmed upcoming fight after his withdrawal from UFC 326.