40 gallon tank w/ centre brace

[fatpuffer]

I want to hang a mh light but there is a black centre brace attached to the black frame.

Can I cut this brace off? Wouldn't the tank bow out. The tank is breeder size
36l x 18w x 15t (18 front to back and 15in top to bottom)...glass is 1/4inch thick


THanks.