Renato Moicano Replaces Tsarukyan

In a shocking turn of events, Renato Moicano will step in to face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 311 after Arman Tsarukyan was forced to withdraw due to an injury. Moicano, riding a four-fight win streak, was chosen over other contenders, including Dustin Poirier and Diego Lopes, to replace Tsarukyan.

Makhachev made weight at 154.5lb, a surprisingly low weight, while Tsarukyan failed to show up for the weigh-ins. The sudden change of opponent has not deterred Makhachev, who will still defend his title against Moicano. Dana White confirmed the news, ensuring that the highly anticipated fight will go ahead as planned. The UFC 311 press conference saw a stacked card of fighters, with the light heavyweight title rematch between Makhachev and Tsarukyan initially headlining the event.

The press conference also featured a fierce exchange between Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov, as well as a heartwarming moment when Jiri Prochazka debuted with a shaved head to showcase solidarity with a young cancer patient. Prochazka announced that he will donate $50,000 to a cancer foundation, with fellow fighter Jamahal Hill vowing to match the donation. Meanwhile, Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former UFC lightweight champion, will be cageside coaching his team, including his son Umar and Islam Makhachev, and plans to retire from coaching soon.

As the MMA world gears up for UFC 311, fans can expect an exciting event with a stacked card of fights. With Moicano stepping in to face Makhachev, the lightweight title fight is sure to be an thrilling encounter. Will Moicano's four-fight win streak be enough to take down the current champion, or will Makhachev's skills and experience prove too much for the replacement opponent?