In a new phase, Renato Moicano chooses his next opponent to face in the UFC: 'That would be ideal'

Moicano promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Laughing all the way to the bank after finishing Chris Duncan with a rear-naked choke in the second round of UFC Vegas 115, Renato Moicano now has several options for his return to the octagon. In an interview with the American website 'MMA Fighting' this Thursday (9), the Brazilian speculated on possible opponents to remain relevant in the lightweight category (up to 70,3 kg), the most populous in the Ultimate.

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According to Money, even though options like Paddy Pimblett and Dan Hooker are more financially attractive, it's more likely that a former rival will resurface as the primary option.

“It would be ideal ( Paddy Pimblett ), because he’s the most popular guy and has already fought for the belt, but I don’t think that fight is going to happen. Benoit Saint-Denis doesn’t make sense because I’ve already beaten him. He won’t want to fight again. What does he gain? Dan Hooker is an excellent option. I think he’s in a position where he can’t refuse many fights, but I also don’t think the UFC will match two veterans in a similar situation. So I think the best option would be Brian Ortega . Why? Because it’s already been done. It was already signed,” he stated.

Renato Moicano admits MMA career probably “would have ended” if he had lost to Chris Duncan :

“I probably would've gone home afterwards, all beat up like Chris Duncan is, and thought, 'Damn, is this even worth it?'”

(🎥 @guicruzzz ) pic.twitter.com/lgF7VYseRD

— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) April 9, 2026

Moicano returned to winning ways after a losing streak.

Renato Moicano beat Chris Duncan at UFC Vegas 115 (Photo: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

The victory against the Scotsman was very important for Money's future. After consecutive defeats to Islam Makhachev and Beneil Dariush , the Brazilian was under considerable pressure to return to the win column. Therefore, the submission not only guaranteed the fighter a reprieve, but also allowed him to advance two positions in the category's ranking , surpassing Rafael Fiziev and Maurício Ruffy, for example.

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