The #1 contender in the deepest division in MMA. Elite wrestling (NCAA-level) with fast, heavy hands that have produced highlight-reel knockouts. Won a split decision over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 and dominated Dan Hooker with an arm triangle at UFC Qatar (2025). Title shot withheld partly due to conduct issues (withdrawals, post-fight incidents) but his talent is undeniable. Has wins by KO, submission, and decision — completely unpredictable.
Complete fighter with no real holes. Aggressive wrestling with dynamic striking to complement it. One of the most physically powerful lightweights in the division despite being only 5ft7in. Extremely confident — calls himself the best lightweight in the world and backs it up in the cage. High fight IQ; makes in-fight adjustments well.
2-1 in his last 3 — beat Charles Oliveira (SD at UFC 300), Beneil Dariush (KO), Dan Hooker (arm triangle). His one loss in recent fights was the controversial split decision to Gamrot.
Makhachev showed the path to beating Tsarukyan — chain-wrestle him early and control from top position. Keep distance with length. Don't engage in brawls — he has the power to finish anyone in a firefight. Exploit the temper if you can bait him into bad decisions.
Keep distance with length — his forward pressure is relentless. Use jab and kick to keep him at range. Don't brawl with him — he has the power to finish anyone in a firefight.
Chain-wrestle him early and often. Makhachev showed he can be controlled from top position. Keep working for underhooks and body locks.
From bottom, work to standing immediately. He's aggressive on top and looks for submissions. If you're on top, stay heavy and work ground-and-pound.
⚠ This report is based on publicly available fight data and AI analysis. Not financial or medical advice.
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