Tom Nolan Aims for a Challenge Against Renato Moicano

LAS VEGAS – Tom Nolan is taking a bold stance in the UFC lightweight division by seeking out a challenge rather than opting for easier matchups. Following his recent victory, Nolan (11-1 MMA, 5-1 UFC) has set his sights on Renato Moicano, known for his skill and toughness. The rising star made his intentions clear during a post-fight interview after defeating Fares Ziam (18-5 MMA, 8-3 UFC) by unanimous decision at UFC Fight Night 278.

"I think Ziam was a really good challenge for me in the sense that it made me nervous. It was a hard fight," Nolan expressed after his victory at the Meta APEX. "I want another fight like that. All respect, not so easy money, 'Money' Moicano: That's a tough fight. I'm young enough. I'm 26. If I come out here and lose, the amount of wealth it will take from that (would be big). But I come out here and win, I'm looking at a top five."

During a post-fight press conference, Nolan elaborated on why he is targeting Moicano. "I respect him so much. I think he's awesome," he stated. "I've studied him a lot. I took some stuff that he works. He does a really good job of getting the body triangle and essentially forcing his hips to face the earth while his opponent does whatever they want underneath, and he just smashes them. I think he's great. I've been watching him since I was a child. It's nothing but respect. I love that dude. He's cool."

Nolan is eager to embrace the challenges of the sport. "I'm back in love with the game and I want to challenge myself," he said. "I think that dude has a scary striking skill set, a scary grappling skill set. He's fought everybody. He's awesome. He's great. Why not fight someone like that? Why not go out there and prove myself right once again?"