Brian Ortega recounts training with Arman Tsarukyan: 'A completely different level'

Arman Tsarukyan training with Brian Ortega . Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

The change in weight class seems to have pushed Brian Ortega to a new level of training. The former UFC featherweight (up to 65,7 kg) title challenger was seen training alongside Arman Tsarukyan and didn't hold back in his praise for the current number two ranked lightweight (up to 70,3 kg). Ortega stated that he had never trained with this level of technique in his entire career.

The partnership drew attention mainly because of Ortega's current form. The fighter officially moved up to the lightweight division and even had a fight scheduled against Brazilian Renato Moicano at UFC 326 in March. However, the fight was canceled after the athlete of Mexican descent suffered an injury during his preparation.

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Commenting on the training session with Tsarukyan, Ortega highlighted the high level of pressure and intelligence required. He also spoke primarily about his ambition to reach that level.

“It’s a completely different level. It’s the highest level. It forces you to think more, to do more… I hadn’t trained with this level of technique before, which is incredible. I want to adapt to this environment,” Ortega stated on his channel 'BrianTcity'.

Brian Ortega, known for his refined grappling and dangerous submissions in the UFC, is now looking to improve his physique to compete against naturally larger and stronger athletes in the lightweight division. His partnership with Tsarukyan, considered one of the most complete ground fighters in the 70kg division, could represent an important step in the American's rebuilding process within the organization, following four losses in his last five fights.

Arman Tsarukyan and Brian Ortega moment

Arman Tsarukyan remains firmly established as one of the top names in the lightweight division. He has a professional record of 23 wins and three losses. The Armenian gained even more notoriety after dominant performances against elite opponents in the division. His wrestling, constant pressure on the ground, and ground attacks have made him one of the most avoided competitors in the category. Despite his positive record and a five-fight winning streak, Arman has yet to have the chance to fight for the 70,3 kg title.

Even without an official date to return to the octagon, at 35 years old, Brian Ortega , former UFC featherweight title challenger, is trying to reinvent himself after years of alternating between big wins and physical problems. The expectation is that the American will be back on the UFC's roster as soon as he recovers from the injury that forced him out of the fight against Renato Moicano . He has a record of 16 wins, five losses, and one no contest.

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