Islam Makhachev has firmly established himself as a dominant force in the UFC lightweight division, boasting a remarkable record of 26 wins and just a single loss. His only defeat came in 2015, when he faced Adriano Martins, but since then, Makhachev has evolved into a well-rounded fighter, exhibiting formidable grappling skills alongside striking abilities. Currently, he sits atop the lightweight hierarchy, defending his title against Arman Tsarukyan on January 18th, 2024, at UFC 311. This bout is highly anticipated, showcasing Makhachev’s expertise and Tsarukyan’s potential, both of whom have proven that they can adapt and overcome the various challenges posed by their opponents.
Beneil Dariush, a seasoned competitor in the lightweight division, has shared valuable insights into how one might contend with Makhachev’s grappling prowess. Dariush believes that the secret to dethroning the champion lies not in grappling exchange but rather in effective striking. He emphasizes that Tsarukyan, or any fighter opposing Makhachev, must press the action on the feet, thereby avoiding a ground game that favors the champion. Dariush, with his own extensive experience, advises that to counter Makhachev’s frequent feints and deceptive movements, fighters must assertively engage him. This involves a blend of timing, anticipation, and strategic pressure.
To successfully navigate Makhachev’s intricate striking game, Dariush highlights the importance of meeting the feints head-on. By doing so, fighters can disrupt Makhachev’s rhythm and prevent him from effectively utilizing his deceptive techniques. Dariush articulately describes how fighters must stay mentally attuned to their opponent’s actions, allowing them to gauge Makhachev’s next moves and ultimately dictate the pace of the fight. This proactive strategy could turn the tide in favor of Tsarukyan if executed correctly, granting him the opportunity to capitalize on the champion’s slight openings.
Dariush’s perspective on blending grappling with striking presents a compelling argument for fighters looking to conquer Makhachev. While the champion’s grappling cannot be ignored, creating a specialized focus on striking can tilt the scales favorably. A fighter skilled in grappling, but choosing to prioritize striking, places themselves in a unique position where they can ape the stylistic elements of Makhachev while simultaneously putting him under pressure. This approach challenges Makhachev to adapt, possibly leading to moments of vulnerability.
On the same night as Makhachev’s title defense, Dariush himself is set to face Renato Moicano. Having not fought since his defeat to Tsarukyan in December 2023, Dariush seeks to rejuvenate his career and capitalize on his wealth of experience. Like Makhachev, he faces a crucial match that could define his path forward in the lightweight division. As he prepares, Dariush’s advice may serve both as a strategy for himself and as a guide for Tsarukyan in handling Makhachev’s exceptional skill set.
The road to victory against Islam Makhachev necessitates a multidimensional approach that prioritizes solid striking while adeptly countering his grappling. As fighters continue to adapt and evolve, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for anyone hoping to dethrone the reigning champion in the confusing, beautiful, and brutal world of mixed martial arts.