Islam Makhachev needs one more win to make UFC history

On By Littum

Islam Makhachev may have cemented himself as the greatest lightweight of all time, but there is still more work to be done for the reigning, defending UFC champion.

On Saturday night in LA, Makhachev broke Khabib Nurmagomedov’s record for most title defenses in the weight class, reaching title defense #4 against Renato Moicano in the main event of UFC 311. Makhachev was originally scheduled to face former foe Arman Tsarukyan, the fight was cancelled. a day before due to injury.

UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Moican

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Photos

Paddy Pimblett rips Renato Moicano for Islam Makhachev Tap at UFC 311: ‘Go to Sleep’

With two wins over Alexander Volkanovski and a submission of Dustin Poirier, Makhachev captured another D’arce choke on Moicano – bringing the champion’s streak to an astounding 15, the longest active streak in the promotion today.

His only pro loss a first-round knockout to Adriano Martins a decade ago, 27-1 Islam Makhachev is one win shy of another UFC record held by Anderson Silva. The former UFC middleweight champion made history with his 16-fight winning streak from 2006 to 2012, a record fighters have only dreamed of breaking.

Islam Makhachev needs one more win to make UFC history

Former UFC champion Anderson Silva. / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Should Makhachev win his next fight, he will tie Anderson Silva for the longest winning streak with a chance to surpass “The Spider”, one of the greatest martial artists in the sport’s history, later.

Ilia Topuria sends heartfelt message to Merab Dvalishvili Post-UFC 311 title defense

Silva fought across two weight classes back then, mainly defending his middleweight title, while Makhachev has remained a lightweight and dominated anyone who put him in front of him for the past 10 years.

Islam Makhachev needs one more win to make UFC history

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Photos

• Jiří Procházka turns back the clock with Highlight-Reel TKO of Jamahal Hill at UFC 311

• Alex Pereira Title Fight Headlines UFC 313, Lightweight Banger Set as Co-Main Event

• Ex-ONE Double-Champ Reinier de Ridder forces the Quick Tap from Kevin Holland at UFC 311

• Raoni Barcelos upsets massive favorite Payton Talbott in UFC 311 Featured Prelim

Hold on MMA knockout for more daily coverage of UFC, MMA and boxing.

Follow MMA Knockout on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.