The Brazilian UFC star Renato Moicano had a standout performance last night at UFC Paris (UFC Fight Night 243). He convincingly defeated the hometown favorite Benoit Saint-Denis in just two rounds. After the fight, he took shots at several fellow lightweights, including trolling Dan Hooker in a post-fight interview.
Before the fight, everyone anticipated a tough 25-minute brawl between the two fighters. Both fighters even speculated about each other’s key features, finding them difficult to penetrate. However, Renato Moicano surprised everyone by cracking open Benoit Saint-Denis’ face in just two rounds. Interestingly, after the fight, he seemed to take a dig at one of the top-ranked lightweight fighters.
If they give me Dan Hooker, it’s easy money, I know. I don’t know how he’s on the top five or top six, that’s unbelievable. That’s like to see a turtle in the tree.
Renato Moicano via ESPN MMA
Renato Moicano seemingly nullifies Dan Hooker’s MMA prowess. He highlights some significant differences between himself and Hooker. The Brazilian fighter acknowledged the Kiwi’s elite striking. However, Moicano is confident because he believes ‘Hangman’ lacks a strong ground game. That being said, it is not the first time when the ‘Money’ Moicano issued a challenge on Hooker.
During Renato Moicano’s last outing at UFC 300, Dan Hooker was confident about the Brazilian losing that bout. However, Moicano shunned those claims and convincingly defeated Jalin Turner. Soon after, he also took a wild dig at Hooker, doubting the latter’s skillset. With his recent victory at UFC Paris, Moicano wants to fight the Kiwi lightweight.
Renato Moicano discusses his path to UFC gold
Renato Moicano stepped into the UFC octagon for the first time in 2014. His ten-year journey was filled with triumphs and setbacks. However, since his last setback against Rafael Dos Anjos at UFC 272, Moicano is yet to be defeated. He currently boasts an impressive four-fight winning streak. With this, he might be a formidable contender for the coveted UFC championship title.
Renato Moicano eyes for a title shot (Image via Imago)With his recent masterclass at UFC Paris (UFC Fight Night 243), the Brazilian fighter may have positioned himself as a strong contender for the UFC championship. Interestingly, Moicano even discussed his plans for a title shot during his post-fight press conference. Moreover, he also mentioned not having much time to fulfill his championship dream.
Go to the top 15 and see somebody with 6 wins in a row and 5 finishes. People cannot deny me anymore. I’m 35 years old. I don’t have much time so now it’s time to go (for the belt)…
Renato Moicano via UFC Paris: Post-Fight Press Conference
The Brazilian star expressed his desire to fight either Dan Hooker or Paddy Pimblett. Currently, Hooker is ranked #5 in the lightweight division after defeating Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 305, while Pimblett holds the #15 position. Despite Hooker’s higher ranking, the Scouser is extremely popular, and Money Moicano aims to capitalize on that.
