Part of Brian Ortega's incredible life story revolves around how jiu-jitsu essentially saved him from the streets. Ortega grew up in the projects in Los Angeles and headed down a bad path before being enlisted in the Gracie University by his father at the age of thirteen.

It was there that the legend of 'T-City' was born. Older and stronger opponents would often underestimate Ortega, and they would pay the price. In a new UFC Journey video, Ortega's coach, Rener Gracie explained:

Four of Ortega's fifteen wins in the octagon have come by way of triangle choke. It's fitting that Ortega has a nickname related to the submission considering how much jiu-jitsu has impacted both his career and life.

Ortega's jiu-jitsu is what put current champion Alexander Volkanovski in the worst position of his career. It will be must-watch television when Ortega takes on Yair Rodriguez this Saturday evening at UFC Long Island.

Brian Ortega would probably not be competing for another title shot had it not been for the support of Rener Gracie.

Gracie, who began teaching Ortega as a teenager, clearly saw great potential in his student. When Ortega's father tried to pull Brian from the university due to insufficient funds, Rener intervened. Rener said:

Rener's decision to keep Ortega in his institution has changed the course of MMA history. Had Rener not chosen to allow 'T-City' to continue training, it is possible he would have never made it to the UFC. His decision to allow Ortega to training may have made the difference between living a life of crime and becoming a championship caliber fighter.

You can watch the full episode of UFC Journey below:

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