With Arman Tsarukyan pulling out of his fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 because of his back pain, Dana White and Co. brought in Renato Moicano to go up in the main event and fight for the lightweight championship belt. And Makhachev seemingly spent no time in accepting the fight. Needless to say, it kind of lifted him a bit higher in the fans’ eyes. However, there was a question that ate up the fighting community.

Why did the matchmakers replace Tsarukyan with Moicano? Of course, White recently claimed that Moicano’s 4-fight win streak was what made him a viable option for Makhachev. Well, it seems like Jon Anik had another reason lying around. And it was linked to Marcos ‘Parrumpa’ da Matta.

All about Cornerman- Marcos ‘Parrumpa’ da Matta from American Top Team

‘Parrumpa’ is one of the coaches who trains Moicano and Arman Tsarukyan at the American Top Team. He has a professional MMA record of 12 wins and just 3 defeats. His last battle was at Underground Cage Fighting Championship 1 in 2018, and he ended his career with a win. After all, he trained under the guidance of Amaury Bitetti, one of the best BJJ practitioners to have ever competed. 

da Matta initially joined the Brazilian Top Team after leaving the Carlson Gracie Team back in 2000. But soon, he got an invitation to join the American Top Team. The 2000 Brazilian Champion has made sure that his students understand the link between BJJ and Judo, and makes them ready for the cage. But how is he linked to the UFC choosing Moicano as a replacement for Tsarukyan?

During an interview with MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn, the UFC play-by-play commentator, Jon Anik, revealed the real reason why the matchmakers decided to call up ‘Money’ for a title shot. While Anik claimed that Makhachev accepting the fight wasn’t surprising to him, he pointed out that the lightweight champ probably would have taken a moment of pause before answering. And the reason lay with the chief corner for Moicano. Well, Marcos da Matta will be present in Moicano’s corner. Anik said, “Perhaps there would’ve been some pause because Marcos ‘Parrumpa’ da Matta, the chief cornerman for Arman Tsarukyan, is also the chief cornerman for Renato Moicano. So you know this camp knows you exceedingly well.” 

No doubt, Moicano was ready to lock horns with Islam Makhachev. After all, every single fighter desires to become the champion. But during the weigh-in ceremony for UFC 311, things became a bit heated for the fighters. And it was all because of a few words Moicano uttered. 

Renato Moicano’s final words to Islam Makhachev before UFC 311

The tension was already high, as Makhachev faced Moicano after they stood on the scales. Makhachev came up with a warning for ‘Money’. He said, “Be ready.” But that wasn’t enough to push the Brazilian down. He snapped back in a fierce tone and replied, “I’m more than ready.” This short exchange showed the world that the fight between Moicano and Makhachev would be packed with action and drama. 

Following the development of the new matchup, ‘Money’ took to social media and revealed his gratitude for the opportunity. But boy was he ready! He said, “‘Money’ Moicano is coming for the belt. Be ready Islam Makhachev, tomorrow is ‘Money’ time. I’m ready and tomorrow I’m going to shock the world. Be ready because I am. This is ‘Money’ Moicano and tomorrow I will be the champion of the world. Let’s f—ing go, let’s f—ing go. Time to go.”

Now, all we need to do as fans is wait and watch the story unfold. Makhachev would come in with his expertise in Sambo and impeccable striking. While Moicano would step in with BJJ and Judo in his arsenal. It’d indeed be a battle of styles. 

What are your thoughts on Moicano getting the chance to fight Makhachev? Do you think he’s the right substitute? Let us know what you think in the comments down below.