UFC featherweight contender Brian Ortega confronted severe well being problems throughout his weight minimize for UFC Shanghai, forcing officers to restructure his co-main occasion bout towards Aljamain Sterling. The struggle, initially scheduled at featherweight, was moved to a 153-pound catchweight after studies emerged that Ortega had been hospitalized through the chopping course of.
Brian Ortega vs. Aljamain Sterling
The drama unfolded throughout Thursday’s official weigh-ins on the UFC’s designated resort in Shanghai. Preliminary studies indicated that Brian Ortega had been hospitalized after falling whereas trying to make the 145-pound featherweight restrict. Sources reported that an ambulance was seen on the fighter resort, resulting in widespread hypothesis that the extremely anticipated co-main occasion could be cancelled completely.
However, after several hours of uncertainty, UFC officials announced that both fighters had successfully weighed in at 153 pounds, allowing the bout to proceed as a catchweight contest. The weight adjustment represented an eight-pound allowance above the standard featherweight limit, providing both athletes with additional recovery time.
Brian Ortega’s Troubling Physical Appearance
Video footage and photographs from the weigh-ins showed Ortega appearing severely depleted and struggling to maintain his composure on the scales. Observers noted that the 34-year-old fighter could barely lift his arms and appeared to be in significant distress during the weigh-in process. Multiple MMA journalists and fans expressed concern about Ortega’s physical condition, with many questioning whether he should compete at all.
The visual evidence of Ortega’s difficult weight cut drew comparisons to his previous struggles at UFC 303, the place related well being problems compelled him to withdraw from a bout towards Diego Lopes on struggle day. Throughout that incident, Ortega revealed that he had battled a fever and skilled his physique “shutting down” whereas trying to chop weight on quick discover.
Industry observers have noted that Ortega has been contemplating a permanent move to the lightweight division, making his continued attempts to compete at featherweight increasingly problematic. The 11-year UFC veteran has previously indicated his intention to move up in weight but has continued accepting featherweight bouts despite the apparent health risks.
Sterling Adapts to Changed Circumstances
Former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, who moved as much as featherweight in 2024, appeared in considerably higher situation through the weigh-ins and agreed to the catchweight adjustment. Sterling, presently ranked seventh within the featherweight division, noticed the load change as a possibility to safe a vital victory towards a top-five opponent.
The fight adjustment came after Sterling had already accomplished his personal weight minimize to the featherweight restrict, requiring him to rehydrate and add weight again to fulfill the 153-pound catchweight. UFC officers labored with each fighters’ groups to barter the brand new phrases, permitting the co-main occasion to proceed as scheduled.
Health Implications and Future Concerns
Medical experts have long warned about the dangers of extreme weight cutting in combat sports, citing risks including kidney failure, dehydration, and neurological complications. Ortega’s repeated struggles suggest his body may no longer be able to safely reach the featherweight limit, particularly given his age and the cumulative effects of years of weight cutting.
UFC officials have not commented on potential disciplinary measures or requirements for Ortega’s future fights, though the pattern of weight-related issues may force a permanent move to lightweight regardless of his preferences. The organization’s decision to allow the catchweight bout demonstrates their commitment to preserving major fights while prioritizing athlete safety.
