Moreno arrived in Mexico City only to learn a few days later that he would be facing a new opponent in Kavanagh. The switch raised eyebrows among fans, particularly given that Kavanagh is coming off a knockout loss to Charles Johnson. Still, the former flyweight champion understands that while the replacement may not carry the biggest name value, he remains a dangerous and unpredictable threat inside the cage.

“Obviously in name value he offers nothing, but he’s still very dangerous. He’s very good technically, very explosive, he’s aggressive and he’s young. So he’s coming in hungry,” he said.

“He’s the underdog. Most people don’t know who he is so he’ll try to use me to boost his name. That makes him dangerous, but I feel very good, what can I say?”

Asked about the possibility of competing on the UFC’s proposed White House card later this year, Moreno didn’t hesitate when addressing the speculation. The former champion made it clear that the idea holds no appeal for him in the least.

“Brother, I want you to tell me, why would I want to fight there,” said Moreno.

“I’m not interested in that at all, thank you very much.”

Watch the entire media day scrum with Brandon Moreno above. He faces Lone’er Kavanagh at UFC Mexico City on Saturday night.

Translation by Cageside Press.