Islam Makhachev proved once again why he is the most dominant force in MMA, defending his UFC lightweight championship with a third-round TKO victory over Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC 312 in Abu Dhabi.
Makhachev Control Was Suffocating
From the opening bell, Makhachev imposed his grappling-heavy game plan. He secured takedowns in the first two rounds at will, accumulating over seven minutes of ground control time. Oliveira, known for his dangerous guard, could not find any openings against Makhachev relentless pressure.
The Finish
In the third round, Makhachev rocked Oliveira with a straight right before taking him down and finishing with devastating ground-and-pound. Referee Herb Dean stopped the fight at 3:42 of the round as Oliveira was no longer intelligently defending.
What Is Next?
With the win, Makhachev called out Ilia Topuria for a superfight at 155 pounds. “I want the best. Topuria is the best at 145. Let him come up and test himself,” Makhachev said in the octagon.
