Renato Moicano is heading into fight week with renewed confidence as he prepares to face Tom Nolan in the main event of UFC Vegas 123 this Saturday at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas.
The Brazilian lightweight is coming off a victory over Chris Duncan, a result that helped him put a difficult 2025 behind him after consecutive losses to Islam Makhachev and Beneil Dariush. With that losing streak now in the rearview mirror, Moicano says he is in a much better place mentally and is ready to build on his latest performance.
Speaking to UFC News, Moicano emphasized how important the win over Duncan was for his confidence heading into another high-profile matchup.
“It was very important to me. I was coming off two losses, and then I beat Chris Duncan in a very good fashion. And here I am to beat Tom Nolan in a very good fashion, too,” Moicano said.
Despite acknowledging the challenge Nolan presents, Moicano believes he has the skills to come out on top.
“I expect a very hard fight. He's a very good fighter, well-rounded, striking, grappling. I just think I'm better.”
Renato Moicano Aware of Tom Nolan’s Early Threat
Nolan enters the main event on a five-fight winning streak, including two first-round stoppages. The Australian has been building momentum, making him a dangerous opponent for Moicano as the two prepare to headline Saturday’s card.
Moicano recognizes that Nolan’s ability to finish fights early means he will need to be particularly cautious in the opening round. However, the Brazilian expects the contest to swing in his favor if he can navigate that initial danger.
“I have to be very careful in the first round, and then I think the fight's going to play out in my favor,” Moicano said.
The veteran lightweight also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of MMA, making it clear that he is not taking Nolan lightly despite his confidence.
“It is a fight. Everything can happen. I just want to go over there, have fun, beat the shit out of my opponent, and get some money, and that's it.”
