In a remarkable turn of events, Islam Makhachev is set to engage in his fourth title defense against Renato Moicano at UFC 311, stepping into the octagon with just hours to prepare for a new opponent. Originally, both Makhachev and Moicano were geared up to face different adversaries—Makhachev against Arman Tsarukyan and Moicano against Beneil Dariush. However, the fight dynamic shifted dramatically when Tsarukyan withdrew due to a back injury that he sustained just before the official weigh-ins. Such last-minute changes in high-stakes environments like the UFC highlight the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts.
Makhachev boasts an impressive professional record of 26 wins and only 1 loss, which came in October 2015 against Adriano Martins. Since then, he has maintained an impressive 14-fight winning streak, culminating in capturing and defending the lightweight title. His impressive submission victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 earlier in 2024 not only cemented his status as a formidable champion but also earned him Performance and Fight of the Night awards, underscoring his skill and prowess in the octagon.
Makhachev’s approach is methodical yet aggressive, often overwhelming his opponents with a combination of striking and grappling. His rise through the welterweights and their capability is underscored by his relentless training and strategic mind, essential for defending his title successfully.
On the other hand, Renato Moicano, also known as “Money,” has made significant strides since moving up from the featherweight division in 2020. With a record of 20-5-1, Moicano has been on a tear, entering the bout with Makhachev on a four-fight winning streak. His recent victories against notable fighters like Drew Dober and Jalin Turner reflect his growing competence in the lightweight division. This matchup against Makhachev presents the largest opportunity of his career, showcasing Moicano’s resilience and evolution as a fighter.
His ability to adapt to the lightweight class, coupled with experience in facing tougher opponents, puts him in a position where he could potentially surprise many analysts who consider him a considerable underdog in this bout.
As the defending champion, Makhachev is a clear favorite, with DraftKings placing him at -1100, contrasting sharply with Moicano’s +700 odds. This discrepancy highlights the expectations and pressure associated with high-profile title matches. Underdog status is not unfamiliar territory for fighters, and sometimes, those in Moicano’s position excel by harnessing adrenaline in the face of doubt.
The outcome of this match, set to take place on January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, will not only define the careers of both fighters but also impact potential future matchups in the highly competitive lightweight division. All eyes will be on both Makhachev and Moicano as they prepare to deliver an electric performance, against odds that tell their own story.