The Octagon returns to Arena CDMX on February 28, 2026, for a high-stakes flyweight showdown that could determine the next title challenger. UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Almabayev (also known as UFC Fight Night 268) features Mexico’s greatest mixed martial artist, Brandon Moreno, defending his home turf against the surging Kazakh contender, Asu Almabayev.
Coming off a devastating TKO loss just under three months ago, Moreno is taking a massive gamble by returning so quickly against a grappler of Almabayev’s caliber. For Almabayev, this is the breakout opportunity of a lifetime—a chance to silence the Mexico City crowd and leapfrog into the Top 5. With the event streaming exclusively on Paramount+, here is your complete preview, fight card breakdown, and viewing guide.
Main Event Breakdown: Moreno vs. Almabayev
The Redemption of “The Assassin Baby”
Brandon Moreno (23-9-2) finds himself at a career crossroads. Once the undisputed king of the 125-pound division, the Tijuana native has had a turbulent 2025. After a hard-fought decision win over Steve Erceg in March, Moreno suffered the first stoppage loss of his career against Tatsuro Taira at UFC 323 in December. Accepting this fight with less than a full training camp’s rest after a concussion is a daring move.
Moreno’s path to victory relies on his superior boxing and cardio. In the high altitude of Mexico City (7,350 ft), his ability to push a pace is usually a weapon. He must utilize his crisp jab and under-appreciated scramble ability to keep the fight standing. If he can force Almabayev into a kickboxing match, Moreno’s volume and chin—proven over four wars with Deiveson Figueiredo—should carry him through.
The Rise of “Zulfikhar”
Asu Almabayev (23-3) is the dark horse of the division. With 19 wins in his last 20 fights, including a recent submission over Alex Perez in November 2025, Almabayev has proven he is elite. His style is a suffocating blend of chain wrestling and submission threats, similar to the pressure that has historically given strikers trouble.
Almabayev’s game plan will likely mirror the strategy used by Alexandre Pantoja: close the distance, secure the body lock, and drag Moreno into deep waters. The key statistic to watch is Almabayev’s takedown accuracy vs. Moreno’s takedown defense (currently hovering around 64% according to UFC Stats). If “Zulfikhar” can secure top position early, he could silence the arena and secure the biggest win of his career.
The Stakes: Title Shots and Rankings
The flyweight division is currently in a state of flux. With the champion likely looking for a fresh challenger, the winner of this bout makes an undeniable case for gold.
- If Moreno Wins: He proves that the TKO loss was a fluke and re-establishes himself as the division’s premier gatekeeper-turned-contender. A win here likely sets up a title eliminator or a trilogy with Pantoja/Royval.
- If Almabayev Wins: He instantly becomes a Top 5 fighter. Beating a former two-time champion in his home country is the kind of resume-builder that demands a title shot.
UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Almabayev Fight Card
Beyond the main event, the card is stacked with fan-friendly matchups, including the return of Marlon “Chito” Vera and a lightweight banger between Daniel Zellhuber and Bobby Green.
Main Card (Paramount+, 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT)
- Main Event (Flyweight): Brandon Moreno vs. Asu Almabayev
- Co-Main Event (Women’s Bantamweight): Macy Chiasson vs. Ailin Perez
- Bantamweight: Marlon “Chito” Vera vs. David Martinez
- Lightweight: Daniel Zellhuber vs. Bobby Green
- Middleweight: Wesley Schultz vs. Damian Pinas
Preliminary Card (Paramount+, 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT)
- Flyweight: Edgar Chairez vs. Felipe Bunes
- Flyweight: Imanol Rodriguez vs. Kevin Borjas
- Middleweight: Jose Medina vs. Ryan Gandra
- Bantamweight: Cristian Quinonez vs. Kris Moutinho
- Bantamweight: Santiago Luna vs. Angel Pacheco
How to Watch UFC Mexico City
This event marks a continuation of the UFC’s partnership with Paramount+. Unlike traditional ESPN+ cards, this Fight Night will be available exclusively on the Paramount+ streaming service in the United States. Fans in the UK can likely catch the action on TNT Sports, while other international viewers should check their local listings or UFC Fight Pass.
FAQ: UFC Fight Night Moreno vs. Almabayev
What time does the Brandon Moreno fight start?
The main card begins at 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT). Expect Moreno and Almabayev to make their ring walks around 11:30 PM ET, depending on the length of the undercard fights.
Is this a PPV event?
No, this is a standard UFC Fight Night event. However, it is a premium event streaming on Paramount+, so a subscription is required.
Who is the favorite to win?
While official odds are tightening, Brandon Moreno opened as a slight favorite (-130) due to his experience and home-field advantage. However, many sharp bettors are looking at Almabayev (+110) as a live underdog given Moreno’s quick turnaround from a knockout loss.
Where is the fight taking place?
The event is hosted at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico. The high altitude (over 7,000 feet) is a critical factor that often affects fighter cardio.