UFC Mexico City: Who is Lone'er Kavanagh? Get to know the flyweight set for his first main event spot
CBS Sports
by
Brian Campbell
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lone’r Kavanagh is set to make history as he steps into the main event of UFC Fight Night in Mexico City, facing flyweight veteran Brandon Moreno in a high-stakes showdown. The 26-year-old from London, who fights out of Great Britain Top Team, has been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity after stepping in on just three weeks’ notice to replace the injured Asu Almabayev. This marks Kavanagh’s first five-round bout and comes against Moreno in his home country, adding another layer of challenge as he aims to prove himself at the elite level.
Kavanagh, fresh off a knockout loss to Charles Johnson last August, shows remarkable resilience by embracing this opportunity without hesitation. He sees it as a divine chance to showcase his skills and believes timing is key. “It’s an amazing opportunity that I prayed for,” Kavanagh told CBS Sports HQ. “I had to talk it over with my team, but once we were aligned, it was go time.” Meanwhile, Moreno, a former two-time flyweight champion from Tijuana fighting out of Las Vegas, brings extensive experience and the backing of a passionate home crowd. Despite his own recent loss to Tatsuro Taira, Moreno remains the betting favorite due to his track record and familiarity with the sport’s highest levels.
The fight takes place in Mexico City at an elevation over 7,000 feet, adding another unique challenge for both fighters. Kavanagh, known for his speed, timing, and power, believes these attributes will give him an edge against Moreno, who relies on experience and crowd support. “It’s about my mindset, my speed, my timing, and my power,” Kavanagh said. “I have an amazing team behind me, and I’m confident in my ability to rise to the occasion.”
This clash is more than just a fight; it’s a battle of narratives. Kavanagh represents the next generation of fighters looking to make their mark, while Moreno embodies the seasoned veteran determined to reclaim his throne. For sports fans, this matchup offers a thrilling blend of underdog determination and veteran grit, making it a must-watch event in the UFC calendar. Whether Kavanagh can pull off the upset or if Moreno’s experience will shine through, one thing is certain: fortune favors the bold, and Kavanagh is ready to seize his
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/25/2026