Two of the Octagon's most intriguing young contenders both proved they are ready for prime time Saturday at UFC Fight Night 123.
Brian Ortega and Marlon Moraes each brought an exciting, highlight-reel finish to an otherwise decision-filled main card at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.
As the UFC picks up a bit of steam toward the end of its underwhelming 2017, Moraes should be closing in on a men's bantamweight title shot. Meanwhile, Ortega may have significantly cut the line at men's featherweight.
The 29-year-old Moraes needed a statement win and got one via first-round knockout of Aljamain Sterling.