Ortega pulls out of UFC 331 with eye cut, targets November return after two-fight skid

Brian Ortega has been forced out of UFC 331 for the second time this year, withdrawing from his scheduled rematch with Renato Moicano due to stitches over his left eye. The Los Angeles card, set for September 19, will now proceed without him.

Ortega shared photos and video of the injury on social media, explaining the circumstances behind the late withdrawal. “This one hurts,” he wrote. “I have to pull out of the fight because of the stitches in my eye. I’m on weight, I’ve been training my ass off, and this has honestly been one of the best camps I’ve ever had. I was really looking forward to fighting at home in Los Angeles in front of my family, friends, and everyone who’s been supporting me.”

It is the second time in 2026 that Ortega has pulled out of a fight with Moicano. He first withdrew from UFC 326 in March citing injuries, and the rematch at UFC 331 was intended to settle the score. Instead, Moicano will now headline UFC Vegas 123 against Tom Nolan.

Ortega has not competed since August 2025, when he dropped a decision to Aljamain Sterling — a result that extended his losing run to two consecutive fights, following an earlier defeat to Diego Lopes. Despite the setback, Ortega struck an upbeat tone and confirmed his return is already arranged.

“My next fight is in soon, so I’m getting right back to training,” he wrote. “We’ve brought some new people into camp and I’m excited to show you guys a new side of me. Thank you to everyone who’s been supporting me through all of this. I’ll see you guys in November.”

Ortega did not name an opponent or confirm a specific event for the November date.