Renato ‘Money’ Moicano was eyeing another short-notice paycheck for UFC 313 but was cut short after exchanging a few messages with the promotion.
After Dan Hooker withdrew from his co-main event spot against ‘The Highlight’, a slew of top contenders offered to step in as a late-notice replacement for UFC 313.
Popular Brazilian Renato Moicano was one of those who raised his hand, with ‘Money’ now explaining why the UFC decided to instead move in Rafael Fiziev’s direction.
Renato Moicano was messaged by the UFC over Justin Gaethje fight
Following Hooker’s withdrawal, Renato Moicano took to social media to state that he’d be willing to step in on short notice to face Justin Gaethje – similar to how his lightweight title shot came about at UFC 311 in January.
“2 weeks is good, I have enough time for 2 or 3 sparring sessions,” he wrote on X, adding that “I will be ready if they call!”
Well, the UFC did come calling, although, after a few exchanged messages, the idea of a Gaethje vs Moicano showcase fell through – as Moicano has now explained on Show Me The Money.
“Just to clarify, people were saying that I ran from the fight… But to be honest, the UFC messaged me [about the fight], and I said ‘Hey, I am 190lbs, we can do a catchweight?’
“But they didn’t want a catchweight, so it is what it is.”
Despite being the one to enjoy a full training camp, Justin Gaethje remains a slight underdog to Fiziev – always with one eye on the best lines, Moicano is predicting ‘The Highlight’ will upset the bookies’ applecart.
“I think Gaethje will beat Fiziev, but that’s a very competitive fight [and] a very good fight to watch again.”
Renato Moicano responds to UFC Vegas 103 winner’s callout
Back to Moicano, who was recently called out by UFC Vegas 103 winner Nasrat Haqparast after his surprise underdog victory against Esteban Ribovics last weekend.
The Brazilian has now responded in typical Moicano fashion, aka., “Easy money.
“Easy money, are you kidding me, brother? Of course, easy money. If they want to make that fight, I would fight next week – are you crazy?”
Nasrat Haqparast claimed the victory via a razor-close split decision, with Moicano teasing that he might’ve otherwise taken the callout more seriously had he won by KO/TKO or submission.
“I just found it funny because the guy almost lost and then he’s calling people out… M——- got a split decision and is calling names?!
“I’m not trying to be disrespectful; he called me out and if the UFC wants to make that fight, I would take it 100%.”
Renato Moicano currently sits as the #10 ranked lightweight in the world; UFC 313: Pereira vs Ankalaev goes down live from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 8.