Event: UFC 311 | Main Event Location: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, California Date: January 18, 2025
Fighter Overview
– Renato Moicano
- Record: 20-5-1
- Weight Class: Lightweight (155 lbs)
- Height: 5′ 11″
- Reach: 72″
- Stance: Orthodox
Renato Moicano, a Brazilian fighter with a professional MMA record of 20-5-1, steps into this fight on short notice, replacing an injured Arman Tsarukyan. Moicano has been on a tear recently, winning his last four fights, including a TKO victory over Benoit Saint-Denis1. Known for his exceptional Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills and evolving striking techniques, Moicano is prepared to face one of the toughest opponents in the division.
– Islam Makhachev
- Record: 26-1
- Weight Class: Lightweight (155 lbs)
- Height: 5′ 10″
- Reach: 70.5″
- Stance: Southpaw
Islam Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, boasts an impressive record of 26-1. Hailing from Dagestan and trained under Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Makhachev has been dominant in the division. With victories over top contenders like Dustin Poirier, Alexander Volkanovski, and Charles Oliveira, Makhachev is widely considered the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world. His sambo background and improved striking make him a formidable champion.
Fight Breakdown and Analysis
Striking:
- Moicano delivers approximately 4.56 significant strikes per minute. His orthodox stance and muay Thai techniques give him a solid striking base. Moicano has shown improvements in his stand-up game, incorporating more combinations and hard kicks.
- Makhachev is known for his precise and powerful striking. He lands around 2.52 significant strikes per minute and has developed a varied striking attack with hard kicks and accurate punches.
Wrestling & Grappling:
- Makhachev excels with a takedown accuracy of 45% and an impressive 6.67 takedowns per 15 minutes. His ground control and submission skills are elite, making him a constant threat.
- Moicano has a strong grappling background, with a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He boasts a takedown accuracy of 40% and has secured numerous submission victories in his career. However, his grappling abilities will be tested against Makhachev’s superior wrestling.
Game Plan:
- Makhachev will likely aim to close the distance and leverage his grappling to take the fight to the ground. His ability to control opponents on the mat and secure submissions makes him a dominant force.
- Moicano will attempt to keep the fight standing, using his striking to outpace Makhachev. If the bout goes to the ground, Moicano’s BJJ skills will be crucial in defending against Makhachev’s relentless pressure.
Renato Moicano
Islam Makhachev
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 17, 2025
