Islam Makhachev set a new record and successfully retained his lightweight title at UFC 311 after submitting Renato Moicano in one round in California on Saturday.
Makhachev took four minutes and five seconds to claim his 15th straight victory and has now defended his belt four consecutive times, a first in UFC history.
Makhachev was gracious in victory, reiterating his desire to fight anyone the UFC designates.
“For me, (it doesn’t matter),” Makhachev said. “(Whoever) can make 155 (pounds), just step in the cage with me.”
Moicano was a last-minute replacement for top-ranked challenger Arman Tsarukyan, who pulled out of the bout on Friday due to “significant back pain” related to an injury.
The 35-year-old Brazilian had nine victories in his past 10 fights but wasn’t able to match Makhachev who trapped him in a brabo choke, forcing him to tap almost immediately.
“That wasn’t a one-day notice,” Moicano said after the fight. “That was a life’s notice. I’m very sad. I spent my whole life for this moment and tapped in the first round.”
Makhachev improved his overall record to 27 wins and just one loss.
