In his search for a rematch, Ortega is frustrated when he remembers the moment when he was close to submitting Volkanovski

A. Volkanovski (left) and B. Ortega (right) face each other before the UFC 266. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

In search of revenge against Alexander Volkanovsky, Brian ortega has not yet fully digested the defeat suffered by the champion at the end of the 2021 season. UFC Long Island, which takes place this Saturday (16), the former challenger recalled the episode in which he came close to submitting the champion with a guillotine choke. The North American regrets the resistance of the featherweight 'king' (up to 65,7kg) to escape the submission.

“I watch the fight many times and think: 'how did this guy get out of that choke?'. I was on top, celebrating, to be honest. I had the guillotine in place and I thought: 'I'm about to become world champion'. I expected him to knock, but he didn't. He came out and said, 'holy shit, this guy is really tough.' Afterwards, he was on top and was irritated”, said Ortega, in a conversation with the press at 'Media Day'.

After having his victory prevented by Alexander's resistance, the champion regained control of the confrontation. Afterwards, the athlete was superior and defended the title, winning with a unanimous decision from the judges.

This weekend, Brian returns to the octagon for his first engagement after his loss to Volkanovski. At the UFC Long Island, the athlete faces Yair Rodriguez and can return to challenger status in the event of a big performance.

After overcoming Ortega, Alexander managed to extend his great phase. Featherweight champion since 2019, the athlete has accumulated four belt defenses and is considering a test at lightweight (up to 70,3kg), in search of his second title in the company.