UFC President Dana White shared on social media the moment Islam Makhachev learned his opponent had changed for UFC 311. White quoted Makhachev as saying, “Brother, I am a champion and I will fight anyone.”
Initially, the plan was for Makhachev to headline against Arman Tsarukyan, a rising fighter from Armenia. However, Tsarukyan was sidelined by a severe back injury, and Brazilian veteran Renato Moicano stepped in to face the lightweight champion.
The UFC 311 card is set to take place in the United States on January 19. In the co‑main event, Umar Nurmagomedov will square off with Georgian challenger Merab Dvalishvili.
In a recap of recent nights, Makhachev earned an early victory over Australian Alex Volkanovski in the main event at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi on October 21, 2023. The Russian fighter defended his title and was awarded the night’s top bonus for performance. A separate update notes that he later defeated Dustin Poirier on June 1, 2024, extending his run at the top of the division. Reports from the time indicate this win solidified his standing as one of the sport’s elite performers.
Today, the 32-year-old Makhachev remains widely regarded as a top figure in the sport, leading the pound‑for‑pound conversations across weight classes according to multiple rankings and expert analyses.
Meanwhile, a former UFC champion publicly questioned statements attributed to Khabib Nurmagomedov, adding an element of controversy to the ongoing discussions around the promotion’s leadership and personalities.
Beyond the headlines, Makhachev’s approach and preparation highlight a fighter who blends relentless pressure with technical precision. Observers note his ability to adapt mid‑fight, maintain control on the ground, and punish opponents with disciplined striking when openings appear. This combination has helped him sustain a long title run and remain a focal point of the UFC’s lightweight division. As the sport evolves, his team emphasizes conditioning, strategy, and a willingness to seize opportunities wherever they arise.