UFC 311: Makhachev takes on Moicano after Tsarukyan withdrawal

Islam Makhachev will now defend his UFC lightweight title against Renato Moicano at UFC 311, following Arman Tsarukyan’s withdrawal due to a back injury.

The announcement came on Friday, just one day before the highly anticipated event at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Tsarukyan, who was widely considered an underdog against the reigning champion, had been promoting a secret strategy he believed could give him an edge.

However, he notified UFC officials early Friday morning that his back pain had rendered him unfit to compete.

In a dramatic twist, No.10 contender Renato Moicano has stepped up to replace Tsarukyan.

Moicano, who was initially slated to fight Beneil Dariush, now has the opportunity of a lifetime to challenge for the lightweight belt on just one day’s notice.

UFC President Dana White confirmed the change via Instagram, praising Moicano’s recent performances.

“Moicano has been on a tear since moving up to 155 pounds, holding the longest active win streak of all top-10 fighters in the division,” White said.

“He’s won six of his last seven fights, including four straight, three by finish. This guy is a savage.”

Despite Moicano’s strong form, the odds heavily favor Makhachev, who is seeking his fourth title defense.

Leading UFC sportsbooks have Makhachev as a dominant -1111.11 favorite, while Moicano enters as a longshot at +675.

Makhachev responded to the last-minute change with a confident message on Twitter.

“What does this title represent?” he wrote. “It means you’re the best in the world, and if you’re the best, it doesn’t matter who’s standing across from you. Let’s do this.”

UFC 311 promises high-stakes action as fans prepare to witness whether Makhachev can further cement his legacy or if Moicano can pull off one of the greatest upsets in MMA history.

The event kicks off on Saturday evening in Los Angeles.

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