Makhachev Dominates UFC 311, Extends Record Win Streak

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev extended his winning streak to 15 fights with a dominant first-round submission victory over late replacement Renato Moicano in the main event of UFC 311 on Saturday night at Intuit Dome.

Makhachev, who was originally scheduled to face Arman Tsarukyan before Tsarukyan withdrew due to injury, wasted no time asserting his dominance. The champion secured a D’Arce choke at 4:05 of the first round, marking his fourth successful title defense and breaking a tie with Khabib Nurmagomedov, Benson Henderson, and BJ Penn for the most lightweight title fight wins in UFC history.

“I had a lot to lose, but I don’t care who’s in front of me,” Makhachev said after the fight. “I’m here to defend my belt and show why I’m the best.”

In the co-main event, bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili retained his title in a grueling five-round battle against previously undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov. Dvalishvili, known for his relentless pace and cardio, outlasted Nurmagomedov to earn a unanimous decision victory (48-47, 48-47, 49-46).

“This was one of the toughest fights of my career,” Dvalishvili said. “Umar is a great fighter, but I proved tonight that I’m the best in the world.”

Elsewhere on the card, former light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka delivered a standout performance, stopping Jamahal Hill via TKO in the third round. Prochazka, who showcased improved defense and striking, earned one of the night’s Performance of the Night bonuses.

Heavyweight Jailton Almeida also impressed, finishing Serghei Spivac with ground-and-pound strikes in the first round. Almeida called for a fight against former interim champion Ciryl Gane in his post-fight interview.

UFC 311 marked the promotion’s first pay-per-view event of 2025 and delivered a mix of thrilling finishes and competitive matchups. The event was broadcast on ESPN+ pay-per-view following prelims on ESPNews and early prelims on ESPN+.