Islam Makhachev has successfully defended his UFC lightweight title, cementing himself as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
Despite having just one day to prepare for the dangerous Renato Moicano, the champ made no mistakes as he submitted the massive underdog in the first round.
The change was made just one day before the UFC 311 event, with Moicano stepping up into the main event to replace Arman Tsarukyan, who withdrew due to injury.
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The 10th-ranked Brazilian looked to have had a big early moment when he dropped the champ for a split second, but replays showed it was merely a slip from Makhachev.
Moments later and before the end of the first round, Makhachev slapped on a D'arce choke and it was all over, forcing Moicano to tap out within seconds.
Islam Makhachev submits Renato Moicano at UFC 311. Â UFC
"They almost panic tap when they get in this position," Daniel Cormier said.
"He just proves again why he is the absolute best in the world. We could be looking at the greatest lightweight of all-time."
Makhachev (26-1) has defeated every lightweight that has stood in his way, including two-straight wins over Australian star Alexander Volkanovski in 2023.
"I was always looking for the finish," he said after the victory.
"I'm not just talk. If my opponent gives me small chance, I will close the night. For me, no matter – who can make 155? Just step to the cage and stand in front of me.
"I like this belt. If somebody wants this belt, come to the cage."
Islam Makhachev celebrates after his win at UFC 311. Â Getty
Moicano (20-6-1) on the other hand was left devastated by the outcome.
"I'm very sad, I worked my whole life for this moment," he said.
"Islam was much better today. I don't know if I will ever get a chance like that again."
In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili defeated Merab Dvalishvili via unanimous decision to retain his bantamweight title.
