Lone’er Kavanagh stuns Brandon Moreno in Mexico City UFC upset

Britain’s Lone’er Kavanagh has secured the biggest victory of his career by defeating former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno on just three weeks’ notice.

The 26-year-old produced a disciplined performance in Mexico City to earn a unanimous decision victory with scorecards of 49-46, 48-47 and 48-47.

Despite entering the octagon as an unranked underdog against the division’s number six contender, Kavanagh silenced the home crowd to propel himself towards the flyweight elite.

“I said before this fight – I live for legendary moments,” said Kavanagh.

“This is a legendary moment. Brandon is a legend. Two-time world champ. I’m a big fan. I watched him when I was a kid. To get to fight him is amazing.”

Seizing the opportunity

The Londoner stepped in to face the two-time title holder after original opponent Asu Almabayev was forced to withdraw through injury.

It marked an impressive return to form for Kavanagh, who was looking to bounce back from the first defeat of his professional career against Charles Johnson in August.

He established control early, utilizing precise leg kicks to keep the Mexican veteran at range.

A flurry of punches midway through the second round clearly troubled Moreno, signaling the Briton’s intent.

Composure under pressure

While Moreno found moments of success in the third round, his younger opponent regained momentum with further punishing kicks to the legs.

Kavanagh showcased excellent defensive grappling in the closing stages, neutralizing several takedown attempts to seal the win.

The result improves Kavanagh’s record to 10 wins from 11 fights, while handing Moreno a fourth loss in his last six outings.