UFC Long Island, Ortega vs. Rodríguez: a Mexican battle at lunchtime

UFC has moved one of its Fight Nights from the Las Vegas Apex, taking the action to the UBS Arena in Elmont, Long Island. What’s more the organisers have gone for an early, early show, with the main bill starting at 2:00 p.m. Eastern. Fans will be in the arena extremely early, with the show starting at 11:00 a.m. Even if you’ve got lunch booked, it’s probably worth changing your plans - this is going to be a serious show.

Ortega vs Rodríguez - featherweight two vs three

Brian Ortega, featherweight number two, faces Yair Rodríguez, currently number three. Both are targeting the man in the top spot Alexander Volkanovski, who was injured in his last fight against Holloway and will be out of training for the next three months. It could be a long road though, since the Australian also has the option of moving up in division.

But either way, Ortega (American of Mexican origin) and Rodríguez need to win to get the fight they want. Ortega’s last fight was, in fact, against Volkanovski. The champion gave him a punishing, though he withstood it. He has lost two of his last three fights, but victory would give him another chance.

Ortega the slight favorite against Rodríguez... maybe

Meanwhile, ‘Pantera’ Rodríguez comes from losing to Holloway. He’s won two of his last five fights meaning, just like his rival, he needs a win. The battle is going to be tremendous. Both put everything into their fights and will set a frenetic rhythm, what is harder to say is who is the favorite. Given his record in the big fights, the edge should be with Ortega, but once two are in the Octagon, things will be evenly matched. They are both complete fighters who can battle through any situation. This is going to be war.

UFC Long Island Main Card

UFC Long Island Prelims

Ortega vs Rodríguez: how to watch

You can tune in to the action on ESPN, ESPN+, ABC and with UFC Fight Pass.