Islam Makhachev set a new record and successfully retained his lightweight title at UFC 311 after knocking out Renato Moicano in one round in California on Saturday.
It took Makhachev four minutes and five seconds to earn his 15th straight win, and he has now defended his belt four consecutive times, a first in UFC history.
Makhachev was gracious in victory, reiterating his desire to fight whoever the UFC determines.
“For me (it doesn’t matter),” Makhachev said. “(Whoever) can make 155 (pounds), just step into the cage with me.”
Moicano was a last-minute replacement for top-ranked contender Arman Tsarukyan, who withdrew from the match on Friday due to “significant back pain” related to the injury.
The 35-year-old Brazilian has nine wins in his last 10 fights, but was unable to keep up with Makhachev who trapped him in a Brabo choke, forcing him to tap almost immediately.
“This wasn’t one day’s notice,” Moicano said after the fight. “It was the notice of life. I’m so sad. I spent my whole life for this moment and scored in the first round.”
Makhachev improved his overall record to 27 wins and only one loss.
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