Two of the top contenders in the featherweight division square off on Saturday, with Brian Ortega and Yair Rodriguez set to meet in New York.
Alexander Volkanovski, who successfully defended his featherweight title against Max Holloway on 2nd July, has dominated this division since joining the UFC in 2016.
His most recent victory extended his winning streak to 22 and there appears to be a big gulf between the Australian and the rest.
Ortega, ranked #2, has twice fought for the featherweight title, losing to Holloway via TKO at UFC 231 in 2018, before coming away on the wrong side of a decision when facing Volkanovski last time out at UFC 266.
What | Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez |
| Where | UBS Arena, Elmont, New York, USA |
| When | From 17:00, Saturday 16th July, 2022 |
How to watch | BT Sport 2 |
| Odds | Brian Ortega 10/17, Yair Rodriguez 7/5 |
Ortega eager for another opportunity
T-City undoubtedly wants another chance to become a UFC champion and he'll need to get back to winning ways this weekend to keep those hopes alive.
But, getting back on a positive track is easier said than done for Ortega, priced at 10/17 to secure the win, as he prepares to face the extremely well-rounded Rodriguez, who is available at 7/5 to claim victory in New York.
Rodriguez is ranked #3 and also looking to recover from a decision loss at the hands of Holloway at UFC Vegas 42 in November 2021.
That was only the second time Rodriguez has lost a fight since making his UFC debut in 2014 and he's edging ever-closer to his maiden shot the title.
When is Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez?
Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez takes place on Saturday 16th July, 2022.
What time is Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez?
The prelims are scheduled to get under way at 17:00 with the main card beginning at 19:00, while the main event between Ortega and Rodriguez should take place at around 22:00.
Where is Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez?
The UBS Arena in Elmont, New York plays host to Saturday's card.
Can I watch Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez?
Yes. The preliminary card and main card are both available to watch on BT Sport 2.
Who is the favourite for Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez?
Ortega is the favourite for Saturday's contest, priced at 10/17, while Rodriguez can be backed at 7/5.
It's also worth noting that 10 of Ortega's 15 victories have come inside the distance and he is available at 13/8 to win by KO, TKO, DQ or Submission.
Are there any belts on the line at Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez?
No. Both fighters sit high in the rankings, Ortega is #2 and Rodriguez #3, so victory on Saturday will put them in prime position for a shot at featherweight title holder Volkanovski.
What is Brian Ortega's record?
18 fights, 15 wins (3 KOs), 2 defeats.
What is Yair Rodriguez's record?
17 fights, 13 wins (4 KOs), 3 defeats, 1 no contest.
Who is on the undercard at Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez?
Main card
Michelle Waterson vs Amanda Lemos
Li Jingliang vs Muslim Salikhov
Matt Schnell vs Su Mudaerji
Shane Burgos vs Charles Jourdain
Lauren Murphy vs Miesha Tate
Preliminary card
Ricky Simon vs Jack Shore
Dalcha Lungiambula vs Punahele Soriano
Bill Algeo vs Herbert Burns
Dustin Jacoby vs Da Un Jung
Dwight Grant vs Dustin Stoltzfus
Philip Rowe vs Abubakar Nurmagomedov
Jessica Penne vs Emily Ducote
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