The stage was set for UFC 311 with Islam Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, all prepared to defend his title against Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch. However, in the eleventh hour, chaos struck. Reports emerged that a back injury had sidelined Tsarukyan, leaving fans holding their breath. Then came the bombshell announcement. Renato Moicano would be stepping in as a last-minute replacement!

Dana White broke the news with characteristic flair. In a post shared on his Instagram account, the UFC boss revealed, “Ladies and gentlemen, the pound-for-pound number 1 fighter in the world, Islam Makhachev versus Renato Moicano for the lightweight title. Live tomorrow night from the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. I will see you there.”

The dramatic face-off between the two fighters painted a vivid picture of what was about to come. Makhachev’s steely warning, “Be ready,” was met with Moicano’s fiery retort, “I’m more than ready.” It was a clash of composure and defiance, setting the stage for a bout that has fans buzzing with anticipation.

As indicated in the announcement by White, Moicano’s ascent in the lightweight division has been nothing short of meteoric. Six wins in his last seven fights, with four straight victories, three by finish. Known for his heart and relentless pressure, the Brazilian thrives in chaos. But facing Islam Makhachev on less than a day’s notice? That’s a whole new beast. As the news spread, fans flooded social media with a flurry of reactions, and here’s a look at what the netizens had to say!

Islam Makhachev’s demeanor at the UFC 311 face-off with Renato Moicano sends fans into a frenzy

Some fans claimed that Islam Makhachev looked “upset” with the situation as this isn’t the first time he’s had to deal with an opponent not making it to the fight. At UFC 294, the Dagestani champion was set to defend his crown in a rematch against Charles Oliveira. However, due to an injury suffered by ‘Do Bronx’ during training camp, Makhachev faced Alexander Volkanovski on short notice instead.

“Islam looked upset can’t blame him second time #1 contender pulls out of his fights”

Others were more concerned about the pressure Renato Moicano was under due to stepping into a high-stakes fight on such short notice. Originally, ‘Money’ was supposed to take on Beneil Dariush at the event, by no means an easy fight. Yet, it’s nowhere near the pressure that Islam Makhachev brings to the Octagon. What do you think?

“Bro is shaking”

But Renato Moicano is still a warrior and the fans lauded his “heart” to accept a fight against the no. 1 P4P fighter in the world on such short notice. According to DraftKings, the champion is coming into this matchup as a massive favorite at -1100 with Moicano, the underdog, at +700. (odds subject to change)

“móicano def got heart bro took the baddest man alive in 1 day notice”

For some, Islam Makhachev’s expression told the entire story. After waiting for a rematch six years in the making, it’d make sense why the Dagestani champion would be miffed at the change in opponents. Yet, as revealed by Dana White, “And when I called Islam, Islam said, “Brother, I am the champion. I don’t care who it is. I will fight anyone.”

“islam looks furious”

Even so, there are those who believe the underdog just might pull off a massive upset at UFC 311! Why? As stated by ‘Money’ himself, “It doesn’t matter if it’s the champion or not, tomorrow I’m winning.”

“MOICANO CAN NOT AFFORD TO LOSE MY BROTHER”

In conclusion, social media reactions have only added to the drama of the UFC 311 main event. Some see a “furious” champion enraged by a last-minute change, while others see a fearless challenger willing to risk it all. Could Renato Moicano’s daring decision to step in on short notice turn him into an overnight legend? Or will Islam Makhachev’s iron will and elite skill set prove too much to overcome? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!