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Tag: Renato Moicano

  • Renato Moicano Sends Chilling Message To Former Opponent After UFC Vegas 115 Win – ‘I Want To Kill This Motherf*cker’

    Renato Moicano wasted no time making a statement at UFC Vegas 115, but it wasn’t just the win that grabbed attention. It was what came after.

    Coming off a tough stretch in the main event of UFC Vegas 115 on Saturday night, the Brazilian lightweight bounced back in emphatic fashion, finishing Chris Duncan via second-round submission after dropping him earlier in the fight.

    The performance re-established Moicano as a dangerous presence in the division, but his focus quickly shifted beyond rankings or momentum.

    Renato Moicano Targets Former Foe Brian Ortega After UFC Vegas 115 Win

    Moments after his victory, Renato Moicano made it clear that one name sits above all others on his list: Brian Ortega.

    “There is one motherf*cker who I have bad blood [with] and his name is Brian Ortega,” Moicano said. “He ran the first time. I was beating him the first time. He got me OK, fair enough, but it was my first defeat. Now I want revenge. I want his head. I want to kill this motherf*cker.”

    The rivalry dates back to UFC 214, where the two first met in a featherweight bout. The former UFC lightweight title challenger was ahead before “T-City” secured a third-round submission, handing him the first loss of his professional career.

    Nearly a decade later, the MMA promotion attempted to revisit that matchup at UFC 326. However, the rematch was scrapped after Ortega withdrew due to lingering injuries, leaving Moicano without the opportunity to settle the score.

    Moicano Eyes Multiple Opponents, But Revenge Tops The List

    While revenge appears to be the driving force, the 36-year-old did not shy away from sizing up other contenders in the lightweight division.

    “Dan Hooker, f*cking easy money,” Moicano said. “Paddy Pimblett, fcking easy money. Benoit Saint Denis, f*cking easy money.”

    Despite naming several potential opponents, Moicano admitted that no fight carries the same weight as facing Ortega again.

    “I think Dan Hooker would be even easier, but at the same time, it was my first loss,” he said. “Brian Ortega, especially because he’s coming to lightweight. I like fighting. I like that matchup. We were supposed to fight, so I don’t know. I don’t know what happened to him. He just pulled out of the fight, but I think we have unfinished business.”

    With his victory at UFC Vegas 115, Moicano has rebounded from a two-fight losing streak and now improves his record to 13-7 inside the promotion.

  • “One-Way Traffic” – Renato Moicano Batters Chris Duncan

    “One-Way Traffic” – Renato Moicano Batters Chris Duncan

    Facing a short-notice teammate in Chris Duncan, Renato Moicano still wanted to make a statement. He did just that with a second-round finish of Duncan in the main event of UFC Vegas 115.

    After a bit of feeling out, the two did plenty of battling by the fence in a grappling control battle. The first round, however, saw plenty of trading from the two, with Moicano finding better success by working the jab.

    Moicano, however, turned things up by cracking Duncan in the second, knocking Duncan down and busting the Scottish fighter open. Moicano threatened a choke, and when he couldn’t get it, he laid in some nasty ground-and-pound on Duncan.

    Moicano finally locked the choke in late in the round, getting a quick tap from Duncan for the win.

    Renato Moicano Submits Chris Duncan In UFC Vegas 115 Main Event

    Moicano rebounds after a pair of losses in 2025, losing a short-notice lightweight title fight with Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 and dropping a decision to Beneil Dariush at UFC 317.

    Duncan sees a four-fight win streak snapped tonight. He entered this fight off a finish of Terrance McKinney at UFC 323.

  • UFC Vegas 115 Results: Moicano vs Duncan Live Updates & Highlights

    UFC Vegas 115 Results: Moicano vs Duncan Live Updates & Highlights

    UFC Vegas 115 results and highlights are updated live as the action unfolds from the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. The main event will feature a featherweight bout between Renato Moicano and Chris Duncan. MMANews has you covered with all the results and highlights!

    Renato Moicano vs. Chris Duncan – Featherweight Main Event

    Since his famous post-fight interview at UFC 282, Moicano went 3-0 in 2024, bringing him to a four-fight win streak. It was then when he was called on one day’s notice to challenge Islam Makhachev for the UFC lightweight title at UFC 311.

    Moicano lost the fight and has only fought one time since, losing to Beneil Dariush by decision at UFC 317.

    Duncan has won six of his seven Octagon bouts, including a current four-fight win streak, since winning a contract on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2022. Duncan enters this fight off a finish of Terrance McKinney at UFC 323.

    The co-main event will be a strawweight contenders battle between Virna Jandiroba and Tabatha Ricci.

    Jandiroba had won five straight when she and Mackenzie Dern met to determine the new UFC women’s strawweight champion at UFC 321. Jandiroba lost the fight via unanimous decision.

    Ricci has won three of her last four. “Baby Shark” enters this matchup off a second-round finish of Amanda Ribas at UFC Abu Dhabi last July.

    If you can’t watch the action, check here for all the latest results and highlights from UFC Vegas 115!

    How to Watch UFC Vegas 115

    • Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
    • Venue: Meta Apex, Las Vegas, Nevada
    • Streaming: Paramount+ (exclusive)
    • Prelims: 5 PM ET / 2 PM PT
    • Main Card: 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT

    UFC Vegas 115 Quick Results

    • Main Event: Renato Moicano vs. Chris Duncan — Renato Moicano def. Chris Duncan via submission (rear-naked choke) (Rd. 2, 3:14)
    • Co-Main Event: Virna Jandiroba vs. Tabatha Ricci — Virna Jandiroba def. Tabatha Ricci via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)
    • Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev vs. Brendson Ribeiro — Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev def. Brendson Ribeiro via submission (rear-naked choke) (Rd. 1, 2:52)
    • Ethyn Ewing vs. Rafael Estevam — Ethyn Ewing def. Rafael Estevam via TKO (Rd. 3, 1:44)
    • Tommy McMillen vs. Manolo Zecchini — Tommy McMillen def. Manolo Zecchini via TKO (Rd. 1, 3:57)
    • Jose Delano vs. Robert Ruchala — Jose Delano def. Robert Ruchala via unanimous decision (30-26, 29-27 x2)

    UFC Vegas 115 Results & Highlights

    Preliminary Card (Paramount+, 5 PM ET)

    Lightweight: Kai Kamaka III vs. Dakota Hope

    Result: Kai Kamaka III def. Dakota Hope via split decision (28-29, 29-28 x2)

    Women’s Flyweight: Dione Barbosa vs. Melissa Gatto

    Result: Dione Barbosa def. Melissa Gatto via majority decision (29-27 x2, 28-28)

    Middleweight: Azamat Bekoev vs. Tresean Gore

    Result: Tresean Gore def. Azamat Bekoev via submission (guillotine choke) (Rd. 3, 3:27)

    Women’s Bantamweight: Hailey Cowan vs. Alice Pereira

    Result: Alice Pereira def. Hailey Cowan via KO (Rd. 2, 4:24)

    Lightweight: Lando Vannata vs. Darrius Flowers

    Result: Darrius Flowers def. Lando Vannata via TKO (Rd. 2, 0:52)

    Flyweight: Alessandro Costa vs. Stewart Nicoll

    Result: Alessandro Costa def. Stewart Nicoll via TKO (Rd. 2, 4:56)

    Heavyweight: Guilherme Pat vs. Thomas Petersen

    Result: Thomas Petersen def. Guilherme Pat via majority decision (28-28, 29-27 x2)

    Main Card (Paramount+, 8 PM ET)

    Featherweight: Jose Delano vs. Robert Ruchala

    Result: Jose Delano def. Robert Ruchala via unanimous decision (30-26, 29-27 x2)

    Featherweight: Tommy McMillen vs. Manolo Zecchini

    Result: Tommy McMillen def. Manolo Zecchini via TKO (Rd. 1, 3:57)

    Bantamweight: Ethyn Ewing vs. Rafael Estevam

    Result: Ethyn Ewing def. Rafael Estevam via TKO (Rd. 3, 1:44)

    Light Heavyweight: Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev vs. Brendson Ribeiro

    Result: Abdul Rakhman Yakhyaev def. Brendson Ribeiro via submission (rear-naked choke) (Rd. 1, 2:52)

    Women’s Strawweight: Virna Jandiroba vs. Tabatha Ricci

    Result: Virna Jandiroba def. Tabatha Ricci via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)

    Lightweight: Renato Moicano vs. Chris Duncan

    Result: Renato Moicano def. Chris Duncan via submission (rear-naked choke) (Rd. 2, 3:14)

  • Renato Moicano vs. Chris Duncan Headlines UFC Vegas 115

    Renato Moicano vs. Chris Duncan Headlines UFC Vegas 115

    A lightweight main event has been booked to headline UFC Vegas 115 on April 4, as former lightweight title challenger Renato Moicano faces Chris Duncan.

    The UFC confirmed the pairing in an announcement during the UFC Houston broadcast.

    What makes this fight particularly interesting is that both men train at American Top Team in Florida. It is unknown which man, if either, will not train at the facility for this bout.

    Moicano is looking to rebound from a pair of losses, losing a short-notice lightweight title bout with Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 and dropping a decision to Beneil Dariush at UFC 317. Moicano is currently ranked No. 10 in the division.

    Moicano was scheduled to face Brian Ortega at UFC 326 in early March, but the bout was scrapped following an injury to Ortega.

    Duncan has won four straight and is 6-1 in the UFC since coming in off a knockout win on Dana White’s Contender Series. He most recently submitted Terrance McKinney at UFC 323 in December.

    UFC Vegas 115 takes place on April 4 from the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.

  • Renato Moicano Explains Why He Refused Settlement Money Amid UFC Controversy: “I don’t think UFC is a monopoly”

    Renato Moicano Explains Why He Refused Settlement Money Amid UFC Controversy: “I don’t think UFC is a monopoly”

    UFC star Renato Moicano has revealed why he refused the settlement money offered to him from the UFC antitrust lawsuit agreement.

    As we know, Renato Moicano is one of many fighters on the roster of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He was also someone who was part of the UFC antitrust lawsuit, which was intended to try and give back to the fighters who have, in the eyes of many, been severely underpaid over the years.

    However, following the settlement, Renato Moicano noted that he turned down the financial offering that was presented to him. As you can imagine, this led to plenty of questions from those in the community, including some of his fellow fighters.

    In a recent interview, Renato Moicano opened up on why exactly he made that decision.

    Renato Moicano explains why he turned down settlement money

    “The lawsuit was about labeling UFC as a monopoly, but I don’t think UFC is a monopoly. If they were, there would be legal barriers that prevent other shows coming in. UFC is better than the competition.”

    “It’s not up to the government or the judges to decide what is right or wrong. I believe in a free market and people making their own decisions.”

    Regardless of whether or not you agree with Moicano’s stance, it certainly feels as if the issue of fighter pay is one that will continue to cause great debate within this sport for many years to come – especially in the UFC, given their size and overall control in the MMA landscape.

  • ‘Chin Very Well Could Be Shot’ – Fans & Fighters Debate Beneil Dariush’s Future After Going From Knocked Down To Decision Win Over Renato Moicano At UFC 317

    ‘Chin Very Well Could Be Shot’ – Fans & Fighters Debate Beneil Dariush’s Future After Going From Knocked Down To Decision Win Over Renato Moicano At UFC 317

    In his first fight in just over 18 months, Beneil Dariush put on a strong showing in the Octagon, scoring a unanimous decision win over Renato Moicano at UFC 317.

    After some feeling of each other’s power, Dariush focused on a kick-based offense, while Moicano looked to use his reach advantage and use the power in his hands. Dariush got Moicano off balance and appeared to do damage with one of his leg kicks. Moicano, however, did tag Dariush a couple of times, resulting in some swelling around one of his eyes. The two would exchange, with both men having their moments, before Moicano knocked Dariush down with a right hand. Dariush would scramble as Moicano got to Dariush’s back. Dariush got to his feet, but Moicano landed some more shots as Dariush recovered right as the round ended.

    Dariush landed a strong left hand early, and Moicano responded by attempting to wrestle. Dariush got to Moicano’s back on more than one occasion, using his wrestling to nullify Moicano’s offense and waste his energy. In the clinch, Dariush got the better of Moicano again before dumping him back to the mat. Dariush controlled the rest of the round from the top position, adding in some ground-and-pound before the horn.

    Dariush got the action back to the ground in the third, but Moicano reversed it and tried to get to Dariush’s back — only for Dariush to get free. Moicano clinched Dariush up briefly before a striking battle during the third, with Dariush seemingly getting the upper hand before scoring another takedown and pressuring Moicano until Moicano gets back to his feet with 90 seconds to go.

    A drained Moicano could do nothing, however, as Dariush cruised to a decision win.

    Beneil Dariush Uses Takedowns, Grappling To Score Win Over Renato Moicano At UFC 317

    https://twitter.com/dillondanis/status/1939160435808194578

    This is Dariush’s first win in three years, having suffered defeats to Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan in 2023 and not competing in 2024.

    Moicano has now lost back-to-back fights for the first time since 2019. He was defeated by Islam Makhachev in a last-minute lightweight title bout at UFC 311.

  • Renato Moicano Changes Tune On Paddy Pimblett After Destruction Of Michael Chandler At UFC 314

    Renato Moicano Changes Tune On Paddy Pimblett After Destruction Of Michael Chandler At UFC 314

    UFC lightweight contender Renato Moicano has acknowledged the impressive nature of longtime rival Paddy Pimblett’s latest triumph inside the cage.

    Pimblett recorded the biggest win of his Octagon career to date at this past weekend’s UFC 314 pay-per-view, which he co-headlined inside Miami’s Kaseya Center.

    To keep his undefeated UFC record intact and further climb the ladder toward title contention, “The Baddy” was tasked with adding to the woes of a Michael Chandler who entered the event without a win since 2022.

    And “Iron Mike” was unable to rectify that and improve his negative record in the promotion. Instead, he was battered by Pimblett en route to a TKO stoppage midway through round three.

    The ex-Cage Warriors champion has been collecting plenty of plaudits in the aftermath of his performance in “The Magic City,” and that includes from one man whom he’s frequently gone back and forth with.

    “Paddy pimblett 2024: EASY MONEY…Paddy pimblett 2025: NOT SO EASY,” Moicano wrote on X.

    Moicano and Pimblett have long traded barbs regarding a possible clash inside the Octagon. But with “The Baddy” likely to land above the Brazilian in the rankings this week, he’s now targeting the likes of Justin Gaethje as the Scouser looks to secure a first title opportunity.

  • Renato Moicano Sends Supportive Message To Retiring Former Opponent Jalin Turner

    Renato Moicano Sends Supportive Message To Retiring Former Opponent Jalin Turner

    Longtime UFC lightweight contender Jalin Turner has officially called time on his career, and a former opponent of his has emerged among the prominent names sending congratulatory messages.

    Turner announced his shock retirement at the age of just 29 moments after his latest setback inside the Octagon this past weekend.

    Returning to the cage at UFC 313 for the first time since a crushing loss to Renato Moicano last April, “The Tarantula” was quickly submitted by up-and-coming prospect Ignacio Bahamondes.

    After removing his gloves, Turner informed reporters cageside that his time competing on MMA’s biggest stage was over. And a few days later, the American officially confirmed his decision to retire in a heartfelt social media post.

    Turner has since received plenty of supportive messages, with one of the most recent coming from Moicano.

    “One of the dangerous mdfker in the game! Congrats on your (career)! I wish you all the best and enjoy life,” Moicano wrote on X.

    While explaining his decision to hang up the gloves, Jalin Turner admitted he’d been pondering an exit from MMA in the months on from his knockout loss to “Money” Moicano at UFC 300.

    “The Tarantula’s” career has concluded after a 7-6 run in the UFC, during which he defeated the likes of Brad Riddell and King Green.

  • Renato Moicano Shares His Payday For Saving UFC 311 Main Event On Short Notice

    Renato Moicano Shares His Payday For Saving UFC 311 Main Event On Short Notice

    Renato Moicano’s latest fight didn’t go his way, but he seems pleased with the payday he walked away with.

    Moicano stepped in as a last-minute replacement to face Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 this past weekend, following an injury that forced Arman Tsarukyan to withdraw from the event. Originally scheduled to fight Beneil Dariush, Moicano seized the championship opportunity but lost via D’Arce choke submission midway through the opening round.

    After the loss, the Brazilian revealed on the Show Me The Money podcast that his earnings for the fight surpassed $950,000. He expressed frustration with California’s high taxation while discussing his payday.

    “The taxation is crazy. Crazy. I don’t know how people survive,” Moicano said. “California is one of the biggest GDPs in the world. If you took their state, it’s like a country, but why? Because f*cking big tech. Silicon Valley, startups, and all that stuff, but these motherf*ckers don’t pay taxes. … You know what’s up. Jeff Bezos motherf*cker is not paying any f*cking money or taxes.”

    Moicano also addressed criticism, particularly from Paddy Pimblett, who took issue with him tapping out rather than enduring the submission.

    Moicano, however, has no regrets about accepting the fight on short notice.

    “I don’t get mad, but I was kind of surprised with the takes of everybody,” Moicano said. “People say so much dumb stuff, even some people were saying, ‘You should not have accepted the fight. You should have fought with Dariush.’ I say, ‘Man, you don’t know what you’re talking about. You don’t know how much money I made. You don’t know how much the opportunity means to me.’”

    Moicano defended his decision to step up, emphasizing the importance of taking risks in life.

    “Imagine, Hunter [Campbell] called me and said, ‘You’re fighting for the title.’ I say, ‘No, you know what? I think Islam is better than me, and I think I’m going to lose tomorrow.’ If you think like that, that’s why you’re working a nine-to-five job — because you don’t take chances, you don’t take risks. You know what? You’re going to be a piece of sh*t for the rest of your life. That’s the f*cking truth.”

    For Moicano, the opportunity to fight for a title — even under challenging circumstances — was too meaningful to pass up, regardless of the outcome.

  • CSAC Releases Fight-Day Weights For UFC 311; Dvalishvili, Moicano, Talbott Among Biggest Changes

    CSAC Releases Fight-Day Weights For UFC 311; Dvalishvili, Moicano, Talbott Among Biggest Changes

    Some fighters piled on plenty of pounds between hitting the scale last Friday and making the walk for the UFC 311 pay-per-view on Saturday.

    The mixed martial arts leader opened its PPV account for 2025 this past weekend in Los Angeles, where Inglewood’s Intuit Dome played host to two championship contests and a host of intriguing matchups.

    While facts such as fight-day weights and base purses are rarely seen officially, the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) provides more disclosure for events under its jurisdiction.

    And amid conversations in the MMA community after the release of payouts for those who competed at UFC 311, there’s a new topic of discussion regarding weight discrepancy.

    Renowned MMA reporter Aaron Bronsteter shared the figures via CSAC this week, with the most notable increases from weigh-in day to fight night coming from Tagir Ulanbekov, Payton Talbott, Merab Dvalishvili, Raoni Barcelos and Renato Moicano — all of whom weighed 17 percent more a day on from weighing in.

    With his 26.8-pound change, Moicano was 3.8 pounds heavier for his unsuccessful title challenger opposite Islam Makhachev in the UFC 311 main event.

    The biggest discrepancy, meanwhile, came in the main card middleweight contest between Reinier de Ridder and Kevin Holland. With a 15 percent increase, the Dutchman boasted a 21.6-pound advantage over “Trailblazer,” who gained just 4 percent post-weigh-in.

    Second in that regard was the gap between Jamahal Hill and Jiří Procházka. “Sweet Dreams” took to the cage 13.6 pounds heavier than his fellow former champ, who ultimately emerged victorious after knocking the American out in round three.

  • UFC Vet Says Paddy Pimblett Is Looking For Attention With Renato Moicano Criticism

    UFC Vet Says Paddy Pimblett Is Looking For Attention With Renato Moicano Criticism

    Paddy Pimblett had harsh words for Renato Moicano following his loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 this past weekend.

    “The Baddy” criticized Moicano for tapping out to a D’Arce choke midway through the opening round, rather than enduring the submission and passing out. Pimblett took to social media, repeatedly urging Moicano to “go to sleep” and accusing him of tapping “after like two seconds like a b*tch.”

    Veteran fighter Matt Brown weighed in on the controversy, attributing Pimblett’s remarks to a desire for attention while speaking on MMA Fighting’s The Fighter vs. The Writer podcast.

    “I’m betting it’s just Paddy trying to talk and be in the news and get his voice out there and just say things.”

    Brown, a seasoned jiu-jitsu practitioner, dismissed the notion that going to sleep in a submission proves anything.

    “You start seeing the tunnel close — that’s what happens when you almost go to sleep. What’s the point at that stage? We all do jiu-jitsu. We know when we’re caught and when the end is inevitable. You either tap or go to sleep. Just tap. There’s no shame in it. You got caught. That’s it.”

    Brown also suggested Moicano likely understands where he went wrong and doesn’t need criticism for choosing to tap. He called the Liverpool native’s remarks “utter nonsense,” emphasizing that there’s no added respect or benefit to losing consciousness in a fight.

    “In training, you’re working to avoid getting caught in a submission—not testing how long your joints can hold out,” Brown explained. “It’s just silly. I think Paddy’s trying to start something with Moicano, maybe angling for a fight. Which is fine, but he knows better. When you’re caught, you’re caught. Tapping or going to sleep doesn’t change that.”

    Brown concluded by reiterating that there’s no advantage to enduring a submission.

    “No one respects you more for going to sleep. You’re not getting a bonus for it. There’s literally nothing you gain by not tapping.”

  • Renato Moicano Urges Dana White To Book His Next Fight Just Days On From UFC 311 Setback

    Renato Moicano Urges Dana White To Book His Next Fight Just Days On From UFC 311 Setback

    UFC lightweight contender Renato Moicano is already looking ahead to his next assignment — and a grudge that he wants to settle in 2025.

    Moicano was the recipient of a surprise title shot this past weekend in Los Angeles, where MMA’s leading promotion opened its pay-per-view account for 2025 with UFC 311 from the Intuit Dome.

    Originally scheduled to do battle with Beneil Dariush on the main card, Moicano found himself making the walk for the headliner and sharing the Octagon with champion Islam Makhachev.

    His sudden title shot came about after the late withdrawal of Arman Tsarukyan. Unfortunately for the Brazilian, he was unable to shock the world on 24 hours’ notice, instead falling to a submission in the first round.

    While some may say it’s difficult to criticize the fan favorite’s efforts given the manner in which his first championship opportunity arrived, longtime rival Paddy Pimblett found a way.

    “The Baddy” berated the Brazilian in a reaction video, questioning why he tapped so quickly instead of ‘going out on his shield’. Those remarks sparked a tense back and forth between the pair on social media, reigniting talk of a clash inside the Octagon from 2024.

    Moicano, for one, is keen for it to come to fruition as soon as possible.

    “@danawhite just book this fight already,” he wrote on X.

    While Moicano is licking his wounds following an unsuccessful opening outing in 2025 and title shot, Pimblett remains without a date in the calendar for his next bout.

    With that in mind, perhaps the #13-ranked lightweight will find himself with the chance to back up his promise to replicate Makhachev’s performance against the Brazilian later this year.

  • Renato Moicano Reveals Plan For Octagon Interview With Joe Rogan Had He Won At UFC 311

    Renato Moicano Reveals Plan For Octagon Interview With Joe Rogan Had He Won At UFC 311

    Renato Moicano faced a huge uphill battle in the main event of UFC 311. Facing the pound-for-pound number one fighter in the sport today with a full camp would’ve been the toughest test of his career to date, let alone doing it with just one day to prepare.

    “Money” was unable to pull off one of the biggest upsets of all time after replacing Arman Tsarukyan to challenge Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title this past Saturday night. The Brazilian has become a fan favorite in recent times, partly down to his winning streak and partly because of his entertaining and unpredictable personality.

    Moicano’s post-fight interviews have become must-watch as he always has a lot to say and you never know where it’s going to go. Following his submission loss at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, a dejected contender spoke about what this setback means to him during his time on the mic.

    “That wasn’t one day notice, that was a life’s notice. I’m very sad, I spent my whole life for this moment and I tap in the first round. Islam was much better than I today and I had so much to say but that’s not the right time. I’m not done and I don’t know if I will ever get a chance like that again but I will try my best to do.”

    As Moicano told Joe Rogan inside the Octagon, a post-fight speech in victory would’ve been vastly different and he’d already given some thought into how he would use his time on the mic. He posted on X after the fight to state his plans for what his first interview as a UFC champion would’ve looked like.

    Rather than basking in the moment of an incredibly emotional win, in true Moicano fashion, he had a book recommendation and a point to get across.

    “I wish I had won yesterday, grabbed the microphone, and told you to read Murray Rothbard’s What Has Government Done to Our Money! Why money should be a commodity with a floating price dictated by the free market! Why central banks are institutions that, instead of helping the economy, enslave new generations through debt! The control of interest rates and quantitative easing are driving global economies toward collapse!

    “This book explains how government took over gold and turned it into this cursed fiat currency! And how governments have been doing this long before they were democratic—scraping gold coins, counterfeiting! The first step was to seize real money and then control interest rates! We all know how the story ends: the U.S. government with an almost unpayable debt! History is written by the winners! Yesterday I lost and stayed silent. But I will return to say what needs to be said! Last year, I fought for money; from now on, I fight for freedom! Study Bitcoin!”

  • Paddy Pimblett Reacts To Islam Makhachev’s Submission Of Renato Moicano: ‘You Tap That Quick? Go Asleep!’

    Paddy Pimblett Reacts To Islam Makhachev’s Submission Of Renato Moicano: ‘You Tap That Quick? Go Asleep!’

    UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett wasn’t impressed with the quick nature of Renato Moicano’s decision to tap to an Islam Makhachev choke on Saturday night.

    Moicano found himself competing with gold on the line for the first time this weekend, replacing the injured Arman Tsarukyan to challenge Makhachev on just 24 hours’ notice.

    Unfortunately for the Brazilian, it wasn’t to be a fairytale moment in Los Angeles. He was submitted inside the first round of the UFC 311 main event, marking the champ’s fourth consecutive title defense.

    Among those tuning in for Makhachev’s latest defense was another 155lber frequently linked to a showdown with Moicano, the #13-ranked Pimblett.

    “The Baddy” posted his reaction to the fight-ending sequence from the first PPV headliner of 2025. While he gave props to Moicano for stepping up on late notice, he berated the challenger for not ‘going out on his shield’.

    “You f*cking tap that quick, Renato? Go asleep, lad. Go out on your shield,” Pimblett said following Makhachev’s submission. “I f*cking hate that. You’re in a f*cking choke. You’re not going to snap your neck. Go asleep.

    “Second straight win by D’Arce choke. That was too easy. “It was like, ‘Yeah, give him the sub, lad.’ I thought that would put more of a fight than that,” Pimblett continued. “Credit to Renato for stepping up on 24 hours’ notice, but come on brother, you’re never going to get that opportunity again, at least go out on your shield and go to sleep.”

    Before being initially booked to compete against Beneil Dariush at UFC 311, Moicano had been linked to a clash with the rising Pimblett in 2025.

    With the Liverpool native yet to have his next assignment added to the calendar, perhaps talk will turn back toward that matchup following the setback to Moicano’s title hopes in California.

  • ‘Jon Jones Could Never’ – Fans React As Islam Makhachev Submits Renato Moicano On 24 Hours’ Notice At UFC 311

    ‘Jon Jones Could Never’ – Fans React As Islam Makhachev Submits Renato Moicano On 24 Hours’ Notice At UFC 311

    New, last-minute challenger, no problem for Islam Makhachev.

    Makhachev became the first fighter in UFC lightweight history to defend the championship four times with a quick submission victory over Renato Moicano in the main event of UFC 311.

    Moicano appeared to get off to a decent start, landing a couple of strong shots on the champ during the first round. When the fight got to the ground, however, it wasn’t close.

    The Dagestani was able to lock in a D’Arce choke and scored a quick submission to retain the gold.

    Islam Makhachev Submits Late-Notice Challenger Renato Moicano To Keep Lightweight Title At UFC 311

    https://twitter.com/zekesnow1135/status/1880858006285656320
    https://twitter.com/ParamPam1990/status/1880858560294474025
    https://twitter.com/destroynectar/status/1880859259208093728

    Makhachev was originally scheduled to defend the championship against No. 1 contender Arman Tsarukyan before the Armenian withdrew on the day of the weigh-ins with a back injury.

    The champ won the title by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 before retaining the belt against then-featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski twice, at UFC 284 and UFC 294, and Dustin Poirier at UFC 302.

    Moicano, meanwhile, was originally booked to face Beneil Dariush on tonight’s card. He entered UFC 311 on a four-fight win streak and with six wins in his last seven. He had most recently defeated Benoît Saint Denis at UFC Paris in September.

  • UFC 311 Results & Highlights: Islam Makhachev Submits Renato Moicano 

    UFC 311 Results & Highlights: Islam Makhachev Submits Renato Moicano 

    UFC 311 took place tonight from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California and MMA News has you covered with all the results and highlights! 

    In the main event, Islam Makhachev put his lightweight title on the line against Renato Moicano, who stepped in on short notice due to an injury to Arman Tsarukyan. While in the co-main event, bantamweight champ Merab Dvalishvili faced Umar Nurmagomedov. 

    UFC 311 Results: Main Card

    • Lightweight Championship: Islam Makhachev def. Renato Moicano via submission: R1, 4.05
    • Bantamweight Championship: Merab Dvalishvili def. Umar Nurmagomedov via unanimous decision (48-47×2 49-46)
    • Light Heavyweight: Jiří Procházka def. Jamahal Hill via TKO: R3, 3.01
    • Heavyweight: Jailton Almeida def. Serghei Spivac via TKO: R1, 4.53 
    • Middleweight: Reinier de Ridder def. Kevin Holland via submission: R1, 3.31

     
    Preliminary Card

    • Bantamweight: Raoni Barcelos def. Payton Talbott via unanimous decision (30-27×2, 30-26)
    • Middleweight: Azamat Bekoev def. Zachary Reese via KO: R1, 3.04
    • Light Heavyweight: Bogdan Guskov def. Billy Elekana via submission: R2, 3.33
    • Lightweight: Grant Dawson def. Diego Ferreira via unanimous decision (30-27×3)

     
    Early Preliminary Card

    • Women’s Bantamweight: Ailín Pérez def. Karol Rosa via unanimous decision (29-28×2, 30-27)
    • Bantamweight: Muin Gafarov def. Rinya Nakamura via unanimous decision (30-27×3)
    • Bantamweight: Benardo Sopaj def. Ricky Turcios via unanimous decision (30-27×2, 29-28)

    Flyweight: Tagir Ulanbekov def. Clayton Carpenter via unanimous decision (30-27×2, 29-28)

    Preliminary Card Highlights

    Bogdan Guskov def. Billy Elekana

    Bogdan Guskov submitted Billy Elekana with a guillotine choke in the second round of their light heavyweight matchup.

    Azamat Bekoev def. Zachary Reese

    Azamat Bekoev stopped Zachary Reese with ground-and-pound in round one of their middleweight bout.

    Main Card Highlights

    Reinier de Ridder def. Kevin Holland

    Reinier de Ridder sunk in a rear-naked choke to get the win against Kevin Holland in round one.

    Jailton Almeida def. Serghei Spivac

    in this heavyweight bout, Jailton Almeida earned a TKO of Serghei Spivac in the first round.

    Jiří Procházka def. Jamahal Hill

    Jiří Procházka earned a TKO of Jamahal Hill in the third round of their light heavyweight matchup.

    Merab Dvalishvili def. Umar Nurmagomedov

    In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili retained his bantamweight strap with a decision against Umar Nurmagomedov.

    Islam Makhachev def. Renato Moicano

    In the main event, Islam Makhachev submitted Renato Moicano in the first round to retain his lightweight title.

  • MMA Legend Discusses Why Renato Moicano Could Be Bigger Test For Islam Makhachev Than Arman Tsarukyan

    MMA Legend Discusses Why Renato Moicano Could Be Bigger Test For Islam Makhachev Than Arman Tsarukyan

    Renato Moicano might pose a more demanding test for Islam Makhachev than Arman Tsarukyan — at least, that’s the perspective of an MMA legend.

    Makhachev had spent months training to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan in the highly anticipated main event of UFC 311 this Saturday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. However, on Friday, the matchup was abruptly derailed when UFC CEO Dana White revealed that “Ahalkalakets” had to withdraw from their rematch because of a back injury.

    Eventually, “Money” swooped in at the last moment to save the UFC 311 main event, stepping up as Tsarukyan’s replacement. Moicano had originally been scheduled to face Beneil Dariush on the same card.

    Many fans and analysts alike see Moicano as an easy matchup for Makhachev, a sentiment echoed by the oddsmakers who have installed the Dagestani as an overwhelming favorite heading into the fight. However, Demetrious Johnson sees things quite differently.

    During a recent video on his YouTube channel, “Mighty” weighed in on the reshuffled UFC 311 main event between Makhachev and Moicano following Tsarukyan’s sudden withdrawal. The former UFC flyweight champion emphasized how the short-notice aspect of the matchup brings a fresh dynamic, and boldly suggested that “Money” might pose a more formidable challenge for Makhachev than many expect.

    “I think it’s a better fight, Johnson said. “Here’s the reason why: you look at what ‘Money’ Moicano has done recently. He is on a tear because the man ‘can’t afford to lose,’ and I think it’s a tougher fight for Islam Makhachev. The reason is that you have to do it within 24 hours; you have no idea what the game plan’s going to be, and the whole thing changes.

    “But right now, Islam Makhachev is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, so he can fight anybody on any given day. But you do have to make some adjustments, because the way that ‘Money’ fights compared to what Arman does is night and day different. I feel Renato Moicano is way more dangerous than Arman just because he’s not going to rely on the wrestling. He’s gonna go after him, he’s gonna throw knees, he’s gonna throw combinations. And he’s a f**king dog. He’s gonna bring a dog fight.”

  • UFC 311: Islam Makhachev vs. Renato Moicano Ceremonial Weigh-In Live Stream

    UFC 311: Islam Makhachev vs. Renato Moicano Ceremonial Weigh-In Live Stream

    UFC 311 takes place on Saturday night, and MMA News is here to bring you the final faceoffs from the ceremonial weigh-ins!

    The upcoming pay-per-view event at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California provides a chance for UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev to record his fourth successful title defense.

    While that was initially set to come in the form of a rematch opposite top contender Arman Tsarukyan, a back injury sustained during his weight cut forced the planned challenger to withdraw. Stepping in on 24 hours’ notice will be Renato Moicano, who was originally slated to share the cage with Beneil Dariush on Saturday’s main card.

    The stakes will also be high in the co-main event, which will see undefeated bantamweight Merab Dvalishvili look to complete his ascent to the top by unseating current kingpin Merab Dvalishvili in his first defense.

    Elsewhere on the UFC 311 card, a pair of former light heavyweight champs in Jiří Procházka and Jamahal Hill collide, the always entertaining Kevin Holland meets ex-ONE Championship titleholder Reinier de Ridder, and Jailton Almeida and Serghei Spivac battle to establish themselves in the heavyweight title picture.

    Ahead of the event, all fighters set to compete tomorrow night successfully made weight, and all that remains on Friday is for the athletes to face off one final time at the UFC 311 ceremonial weigh-ins!

    Check out a live stream via the official UFC YouTube channel below, commencing at 7 PM ET.

    UFC 311 Ceremonial Weigh-In Video

  • Islam Makhachev Reacts To Late-Notice UFC 311 Opponent Change: ‘It Doesn’t Matter Who’

    Islam Makhachev Reacts To Late-Notice UFC 311 Opponent Change: ‘It Doesn’t Matter Who’

    Islam Makhachev remains unfazed by whoever stands across from him in the Octagon on Saturday night, as he’s focused on accomplishing the task at hand.

    Makhachev was initially slated to defend his lightweight title against former rival Arman Tsarukyan in the main event of UFC 311 this weekend at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

    However, on Friday morning, the headliner took an unforeseen turn when UFC CEO Dana White announced that “Ahalkalakets” had been forced to withdraw from the rematch due to a back injury.

    Makhachev will now square off against Renato Moicano in the newly revamped main event of UFC 311. Originally scheduled to face Beneil Dariush in a 155-pound clash on the main card, “Money” has now seized the eleventh-hour opportunity to challenge for the UFC title after Tsarukyan’s injury sidelined the original matchup.

    The Dagestani champion embraced the unanticipated shift, proudly echoing his own quote, which White had prominently displayed on the walls of the UFC Performance Institute.

    “‘What does this title represent? It means you’re the best in the world and if you’re the best in the world, it doesn’t matter who’s going to be standing across from you. What do I say? No? NEVER. Let’s do this!’” Makhachev wrote on X.

    Makhachev is riding a remarkable 14-fight win streak, with his most recent appearance at UFC 303 in June 2024. There, he secured a gritty fifth-round submission victory over Dustin Poirier to successfully retain his title.

    Meanwhile, Moicano is on a four-fight win streak and has been relentless since his move to the 155-pound division, boasting six victories in his last seven bouts. “Money” enters this title fight on the back of a dominant second-round TKO (doctor’s stoppage) over Benoît Saint Denis at UFC Paris in September.

  • Renato Moicano Explains Why Size Won’t Affect Ilia Topuria Finding Success At Lightweight

    Renato Moicano Explains Why Size Won’t Affect Ilia Topuria Finding Success At Lightweight

    UFC lightweight contender Renato Moicano has little doubt that featherweight champion Ilia Topuria would thrive up at 155 pounds.

    While Topuria has competed as a lightweight in his career, he’s gained major prominence down at 145 pounds, where he occupies the throne on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage.

    2024 marked his best year to date, as the Spaniard captured the belt with a violent knockout of Alexander Volkanovski before repeating the feat at the expense of Max Holloway in his October defense — achievements that saw Topuria crowned MMA News’ Fighter of the Year.

    But there’s talk of “El Matador’s” triumph over “Blessed” marking his last dance at 145 pounds after the champ implied that a permanent lightweight move could be in his immediate future during a radio appearance in Spain.

    Should that come to fruition in 2025, one rising name at 155 pounds in Renato Moicano dismissed suggestions that a smaller frame could hamper Topuria’s pursuit of two-division glory during an interview with MMA Fighting.

    “I think Ilia Topuria is very good…and he is smaller, like I say, but if he can defend the takedowns — and I know he has a good ground game — so if he can defend the takedowns, I think he could knock a lot of people out (at) 155 (pounds).

    “He fought at (lightweight), he fought Jai Herbert. I fought Jai Herbert, I know Jai Herbert is very good and very tall, taller than me,” Moicano continued. “Even though Jai Herbert kicked him in the head, almost knocked him out, he (Topuria) survived. He took that kick and then he (destroyed) Jai Herbert. … So I don’t think size and frame would be a problem.”

    While Topuria ponders his divisional future, Moicano is gearing up for his opportunity to further stake his claim for a first shot at lightweight gold in the UFC.

    Fresh off an impressive 3-0 run in 2024, the Brazilian will kick off his campaign for the new year next weekend inside Los Angeles’ Intuit Dome, where a clash with perennial contender Beneil Dariush awaits.

  • Renato Moicano Admits Disappointment At Beneil Dariush Matchup: ‘I Don’t Think It’s What I Deserve’

    Renato Moicano Admits Disappointment At Beneil Dariush Matchup: ‘I Don’t Think It’s What I Deserve’

    At UFC 311, Renato Moicano will look to earn the biggest win of his career by extending his current winning streak to five. “Money” has been on a great run of form since beating Brad Riddell in 2022, stopping Benoit Saint Denis in Paris last September to make a real dent in the lightweight rankings.

    On his return at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, he will face UFC veteran and 155-pound staple, Beneil Dariush. The #9-ranked contender may be coming off of back-to-back first round knockout losses but suffering setbacks to Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan aren’t major red flags.

    This is especially true considering that his loss to Oliveira at UFC 289 broke his eight-fight winning streak which put him within reach of a title shot if he was able to get past “Do Bronx”. With Moicano being one spot behind him in the top 15, it seems that the Brazilian isn’t overjoyed about this particular matchup.

    Considering that he already has wins over two other ranked opponents, it wouldn’t have been surprising to see Moicano take on a much higher ranked contender next time out though that’s usually easier said than done when it comes to everything falling into place.

    Though he isn’t going to let it affect his preparations and mindset, he was very open and honest during his recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show. Moicano often jokes about wanting easy money instead of tough opponents and clearly he considers Dariush someone that falls into the latter category.

    “Dariush, he’s a tough fighter. That is not what I was expecting and I don’t think it’s what I deserve, but who gives a f***. It’s a fight. Anything can happen and I don’t care who I’m fighting. I just have to be competitive and keep showing up.”

  • Beneil Dariush vs. Renato Moicano Joins Stacked Lineup For UFC 311 In Los Angeles

    Beneil Dariush vs. Renato Moicano Joins Stacked Lineup For UFC 311 In Los Angeles

    The lineup for the promotion’s first pay-per-view of 2025, UFC 311 in Los Angeles, continues to get stronger.

    The mixed martial arts will kick off its schedule of numbered events for the new year at the Intuit Dome, where two highly anticipated championship fights and a host of intriguing matchups will go down.

    And not long after Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan and Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov were announced as the two headliners, the card has deepened even further.

    Joining the undercard bouts set to play out at UFC 311 on Jan. 18 is a ranked lightweight clash between veteran Beneil Dariush (22-6-1) and the charging Renato Moicano (20-5-1). The fight was announced by the UFC on social media.

    For Dariush, UFC 311 will mark his return after sitting out the entirety of 2024 following consecutive knockout losses to Charles Oliveira and Tsarukyan in the year prior. Before those setbacks, the 35-year-old had won eight straight to move to within touching distance of a first title shot.

    Moicano, meanwhile, is on the opposite trajectory having won four on the bounce since a decision loss to Rafael dos Anjos in March 2022. After an injury kept him out for over a year post-submission victory over Brad Riddell, the Brazilian has reeled off three triumphs in 2024, most recently battering Benoît Saint Denis in the UFC Paris main event this past September.

    With this addition, the current fights expected to take place at UFC 311 in Los Angeles on Jan. 18 are as follows:

    • Islam Makhachev (C) vs. Arman Tsarukyan (lightweight championship)
    • Merab Dvalishvili (C) vs. Umar Nurmagomedov (bantamweight championship)
    • Jiří Procházka vs. Jamahal Hill (light heavyweight)
    • Reinier de Ridder vs. Kevin Holland (middleweight)
    • Beneil Dariush vs. Renato Moicano (lightweight)
    • Jailton Almeida vs. Serghei Spivac (heavyweight)
    • Rinya Nakamura vs. Muin Gafarov (bantamweight)
    • Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Clay Carpenter (flyweight)
    • Johnny Walker vs. Bogdan Guskov (light heavyweight)
    • Karol Rosa vs. Ailín Pérez (women’s bantamweight)
    • Zachary Reese vs. Sedriques Dumas (middleweight)
    • Payton Talbott vs. Raoni Barcelos (bantamweight)
    • Grant Dawson vs. Diego Ferreira (lightweight)
    • Ricky Turcios vs. Benardo Sopaj (bantamweight)
  • Renato Moicano Reacts To UFC London Announcement With Fresh Paddy Pimblett Callout

    Renato Moicano Reacts To UFC London Announcement With Fresh Paddy Pimblett Callout

    Renato Moicano has built an impressive record inside the Octagon, winning six of his last seven fights and currently riding a four-fight winning streak.

    Aside from a decision loss at catchweight in March 2022, he has been undefeated in his last four appearances. His recent victories include a submission win over Brad Riddell at UFC 281, a decision over Drew Dober at a Fight Night event in February, a TKO of Jalin Turner at UFC 300, and a dominant finish over Benoit Saint Denis in September.

    The UFC recently announced its return to London for a Fight Night at the O2 Arena on Saturday, March 22, which immediately caught Moicano’s attention. He quickly took to social media, calling out popular British fighter Paddy Pimblett for a potential main event showdown.

    “UFC London Main event!? Moicano vs. Pimblett!? What do you guys think!? #mma #ufc #ufclondon,” Moicano posted on Twitter.

    Pimblett has won his last eight fights, with his most recent outing being against King Green at UFC 304 in July. Both fighters have previously expressed interest in facing each other, sparking excitement among fans.

    Now, the decision rests with the UFC to see if they’ll make the matchup official.

  • Renato Moicano Rejects Dana White’s AI Rankings, Proposes ‘More Logical’ System

    Renato Moicano Rejects Dana White’s AI Rankings, Proposes ‘More Logical’ System

    UFC lightweight contender Renato Moicano has given his take on how the promotion’s official rankings should be revamped.

    The topic of the UFC rankings has risen to the surface in recent times thanks to CEO Dana White’s frustration. The promotion’s boss most recently took issue with the failure to boost Khalil Rountree up the light heavyweight pecking order following his defeat to Alex Pereira.

    White has consistently slammed the media for the top 15s, though the rankings panel is largely made up of defunct and unknown outlets. Many have pushed for changes to the panel and the addition of more recognized reporters, but White has a different idea altogether.

    The last few weeks and months have seen him raise plans to utilize AI to form the UFC rankings. During an appearance on Tuesday’s episode of The Ariel Helwani Show on Uncrowned, however, Moicano dismissed that as a “logical” idea.

    Instead, the Brazilian — who raised his own annoyance with the rankings after staying put outside the top 10 following his dominant win over Benoît Saint Denis — wants to see an organized “points-based” format introduced.

    “I saw Dana White talking about the AI. But the whole thing is, the AI, somebody’s programming the AI too. The way they program the AI is the way they are going to do the matchups,” Moicano said. “I think it would be best if we do like, a way that is points, you know?

    “So if you knock the guy out, or if you submit him, or if it is a decision against a ranked guy — point-based system, you know what I mean?” Moicano continued. “I think that would be better, that would be more logical.”

    It remains to be seen what renovation is coming to the UFC’s ranking system, but White claimed to be having a meeting regarding the issue this week following the final episode of this year’s DWCS season.

    Moicano, for one, will most likely welcome any change that boosts him further toward the gold at 155 pounds.

  • Paddy Pimblett Names The Two Fighters That Would Fast Track Him To The Title

    Paddy Pimblett Names The Two Fighters That Would Fast Track Him To The Title

    Following his undefeated winning streak inside the Octagon and big submission win over Bobby Green last time out, Paddy Pimblett finds himself in the mix at 155-pounds. The #14-ranked lightweight isn’t necessarily in a rush to get himself a title shot but it is something he’s thought about.

    “The Baddy” has already made it clear that Renato Moicano is his next target and the fight makes a lot of sense. Both men are great talkers, are ranked inside the top 15 and are on impressive winning streaks.

    In a recent YouTube video, Pimblett spoke about how he would need to leap up the division’s rankings in order to secure a title shot as fast as possible.

    2-Fight Plan That Would Land Him A Title Shot

    Following some sparring rounds, a big meal and signing some memorabilia, Pimblett answered some questions from the fans in a recent YouTube video on his channel.

    One fan asked what his quickest route to the title would be and “The Baddy” started at Moicano which is likely going to be his next fight. With “Money” ranked at #11, a win over the Brazilian would set Pimblett up for a huge fight next time out.

    He said that squaring off with someone like the former champion, Charles Oliveira, could put him into position for a title fight with just two more wins.

    “What’s the ideal run to a title fight? I’ve seen a lot of people saying I’m like two fights away from a title fight and that is nice but two fights from a title fight would have to be like Moicano, rank #10, and then do like an O’Malley. Fight like rank #2 straight away and that would be a Charles Oliveira. I’d do that. I’d fight Moicano, beat Moicano and then I’d fight Oliveira. That’s probably my quickest route to a title shot to be honest. I really like both of them. Really like watching them fight so it’d be a pleasure to, even more of a pleasure to get in there with Charles.”