Makhachev vs Moicano Prediction

🔊The main event of the upcoming UFC 311 tournament, which will take place on January 19 in California, has been announced as the bout between Russian Islam Makhachev and Brazilian Renato Moicano. Initially, the title contender was Arman Tsarukyan, but he withdrew due to an injury a day before the fight. Can Moicano offer any resistance to the dominant lightweight champion? Let's discuss.

◼ Islam Makhachev

The Russian athlete is a versatile fighter with a background in combat sambo. Makhachev has been competing professionally since 2010. With a record of 12-0, which Islam achieved in local organizations, he was invited to the UFC. Despite winning his debut fight, the Russian was knocked out in his second appearance, leading many martial arts fans to write him off. However, it turned out that Islam is a fighter of the highest caliber, which he continues to demonstrate to this day. In 2022, Makhachev won the championship title by defeating Charles Oliveira. He then successfully defended his belt three times: against Dustin Poirier and twice against Alexander Volkanovski. Currently, the Russian has 26 wins with only one loss.

◼ Renato Moicano

The Brazilian fighter specializes in grappling, with skills in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai. Moicano made his professional debut in 2010 in the Jungle Fight promotion. With a record of 8 wins and one draw, Renato caught the attention of the UFC, where he began winning successfully, even achieving a three-fight winning streak. However, when faced with stronger opponents, his deficiencies in striking technique became apparent. Nonetheless, the Brazilian is currently on a four-fight winning streak, with notable victories over tough fighters like Jalin Turner and Benoit Saint-Denis. Renato currently holds the tenth position in the lightweight division rankings, with 20 wins and 5 losses to his name.

📝 Editorial Prediction

Undoubtedly, Makhachev is the clear favorite in the upcoming fight. However, we believe that the bout against Renato will not be an easy walk for Islam. Firstly, the Brazilian is a skilled jiu-jitsu practitioner. Secondly, he is entering the fight having completed a full training camp, as he was set to face Beneil Dariush at this same tournament. Based on the aforementioned points, we expect this fight to last at least two rounds, which is our betting suggestion.