By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the NEWS
LAS VEGAS, NV—Los Fresnos-based mixed martial artist Isaac Moreno had about 10 days to prepare — and 30 pounds to cut — after receiving the call to step in for a short-notice fight on the world stage.
Moreno competed on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at Dana White’s Contender Series, facing Reginaldo Junior in a 170-pound bout. Moreno said he received the call at noon after Junior’s original opponent dropped out.
“I got the call at 12 p.m.,” Moreno said. “I had about 10 days to prepare and 30 pounds to cut.”
Despite entering the matchup as an underdog, Moreno said the designation did not affect his confidence.
“I knew this was my chance to show the world I belong,” Moreno said. “Whether a favorite or an underdog, I have never been affected because God’s hand is over my life.”
Moreno described Junior as a dangerous opponent and emphasized that discipline was important throughout the fight.
“It was a kill-or-be-killed mentality,” Moreno said. “This guy was dangerous everywhere, so I had to stay disciplined.”
Moreno said that one moment during the fight strengthened his belief that he could win.
“After I took his best punch, I knew I could keep moving forward and win,” he said.
Moreno ultimately won by unanimous decision after describing the fight as “a war.”
His connection to combat sports and Los Fresnos began early. Moreno said he started training at age three at a small karate school in Los Fresnos, located across the street from his current gym.
Moreno was raised in Los Fresnos and still lives there. He now owns and operates Primetime Headquarters.
“My parents and family have been the most crucial part of my success,” Moreno said.
His trainers include Arturo Reyes for BJJ, James Payton for boxing, and Richie Van Houten for MMA.
Moreno also credited his training partners, Christian Maldonado and Dominik Rodriguez, as well as everyone at Primetime Headquarters.
Asked what the victory means for his future, Moreno kept the answer simple.
“It means I get to continue living the dream,” he said.
Moreno said additional opportunities are already under discussion, though he cannot yet reveal details.
“Yes, we can’t disclose anything yet,” he said. “But we’re working on something!”