LAS VEGAS – The stage is set for the featherweight title grudge match between Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega in the UFC 266 main event.
After Volkanovski (22-1 MMA, 9-0 UFC) and Ortega (15-1 MMA, 7-1 UFC) made weight on Friday morning, they had the final pre-fight staredown during ceremonial weigh-ins at Park Theatre, which is just across the street from T-Mobile Arena, where Saturday’s pay-per-view main card following prelims on ESPNNews and ESPN+ will unfold.
Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega had more words for each other at the final faceoff.
Who leaves #UFC266 with the belt? pic.twitter.com/QvOFOohJFk
— MMA Junkie (@MMAjunkie) September 24, 2021
There was initially respect between the pair, but after coaching against each other on “The Ultimate Fighter” reality series and exchanging many words during interviews and press conferences, it’s clear tension has mounted and both men are highly motivated not to lose to the other.
Much like their faceoff following the pre-fight press conference on Thursday, the champion and challenger were spirited, but UFC president Dana White wasn’t letting them get physical.
Afterward, Ortega sent a clear message to Volkanovski.
“F*ck the belt,” Ortega told Jon Anik. “I’m coming for his head.”
Watch the video above to see the UFC 266 ceremonial weigh-in faceoff between Volkanovski and Ortega.