Islam Makhachev Breaks Lightweight Title Defense Record with Win Over Renato Moicano at UFC 311
Islam Makhachev made history at UFC 311, securing his fifth consecutive lightweight title defense with a first-round D’arce choke victory over Renato Moicano. The bout headlined Saturday night’s event at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
Originally scheduled to face Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch, Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) had to adjust when Tsarukyan withdrew due to injury on weigh-in day. Renato Moicano (17-7-1 MMA, 9-6 UFC) stepped in on short notice, earning widespread fan support for his bold move.
Makhachev’s pressure was compounded by the earlier loss of his teammate, Umar Nurmagomedov, in the co-main event. Despite the stakes, the champion maintained his focus.
The fight began with tension as both fighters declined to touch gloves. Moicano briefly unsettled the champion midway through the first round with a shot that seemed to stagger Makhachev, though it was later deemed a slip.
Recovering swiftly, Makhachev secured a takedown and transitioned into dominant control. When Moicano attempted to rise, Makhachev locked in a D’arce choke, forcing the submission at the 4:05 mark of Round 1. After the fight, Makhachev claimed he was ready to fight again soon.
The victory places Makhachev alone at the top of the lightweight record books, surpassing the title defense records of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Benson Henderson, and B.J. Penn. Moicano, who stepped in with less than 24 hours’ notice, earned praise for his courage despite the defeat.
With this historic win, Makhachev has solidified his status as one of the greatest fighters in lightweight history, adding to his growing legacy. Speaking at the post-fight press conference, UFC President Dana White named Makhachev as the Pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter in the world.
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