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The Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes matchup at Noche UFC 306 concluded disastrously for the former title challenger. He was dominated for large stretches of the bout, bloodied and hurt en route to a lopsided unanimous decision win for Lopes, who is currently riding an impressive hot streak at featherweight.
Naturally, Lopes' win or, more importantly, Ortega's loss, drew a wave of reactions from the MMA world, including from fellow fighters. Many took to X to voice their thoughts on the matchup, which even saw Lopes out grapple Ortega, a high-level Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt.
Check out Diego Lopes' knockdown of Brian Ortega:
An account for the MMA docuseries 'Anatomy of a Fighter' was full of praise for Lopes' efforts.
"Lopes is a bad MF"
Another tweet echoed similar sentiments about Lopes' performance.
"Diego Lopes is the truth!!"
Former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, who is currently fighting at featherweight, also spoke glowingly of Lopes.
"Lopez is a beast! Maybe our paths will cross one day"
Another former champion Henry Cejudo also spoke similarly.
"Diego putting the division on notice! He's a problem for everyone"
Michael Chiesa even called for a title shot on the Brazilian's behalf.
"Lopes is knocking on the door of a title fight after that performance. He is must see TV."
More praise from UFC champions followed as Jamahal Hill gave his take on the bout.
"Mr Dynamic!!! This dude is going to be one of the greats!!!"
Others merely expressed awe over Lopes' skills.
"Diego Lopes is an absolute phenomenon, his skills leave us all speechless"
Some though took to poking fun at 'T-City' for his failed relationship with Tracy Cortez.
"If you fumble Tracy Cortez this is what you deserve"
Most of the tweets though, focused on Lopes' performance.
"He just dog walked Ortega"
Others even compared Lopes to his fellow countryman, former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira.
"He's a monster tbh - reminds me of Oliveira at lightweight. Less forward pressure but man he's good"
Again though, some poked fun at the relationship between Ortega and Cortez.
"Somewhere, Tracy Cortez is smiling."
This was echoed in more tweets.
"Brian Ortega got walked like a dog in front of Tracy Cortez. I'm sick to my stomach..."
Islam Makhachev also chimed in with his praise for the winner.
"Number 13 becomes number 3. Congrats @Diegolopesmma"
Now, Lopes will aim to fight for UFC featherweight gold in his next title fight. Given his status as a fan favorite, it may very well come to pass.
