5 possible next opponents for Brian Ortega after UFC 266

#4 Brian Ortega vs Josh Emmett

UFC Fight Night: Overeem v Arlovski

In seventh-ranked Josh Emmett, Brian Ortega could find the perfect rebound opponent as he attempts to evolve as a fighter and contend for the featherweight title once again.

Emmett isn't the most active fighter, having fought only four times since the start of 2018. The 36-year-old was last seen in action in June 2020, where he extended his UFC win streak to three with a unanimous-decision victory over Shane Burgos. He has won five of his last six fights and has lost only two UFC fights overall, so he deserves a step-up in competition.

Ortega could provide just that for Emmett. If Calvin Kattar and Arnold Allen are booked to fight each other, Emmett would be the highest-ranked featherweight 'T-City' hasn't beat yet. It might be a step too low for Ortega, but he did take a lot of damage against Volkanovski.

---

#3 Brian Ortega vs Arnold Allen

UFC Fight Night: Allen v Yusuff

Considered one of the brightest talents in the UFC's featherweight division, Arnold Allen has won each of his eight fights in the promotion. His most recent octagon outing was a decision win over 'Super' Sodiq Yusuff in April.

Allen, who is 27 years old, has taken his time while moving up the featherweight rankings, focussing on developing as a fighter before challenging the top men in the division. He finally seems ready for a real test in the form of Ortega, who could take a significant step towards redeeming himself by beating 'Almighty'.

This seems like an exciting matchup between two well-rounded, technical fighters.