Sun Jan 19 07:47:28 UTC 2025: ## Makhachev Dominates, Retains Lightweight Title in Inglewood

**INGLEWOOD, CA** – Islam Makhachev successfully defended his UFC lightweight championship for a record-breaking fifth time, submitting Renato Moicano in the first round at UFC Fight Night at the Intuit Dome. This victory extends Makhachev’s impressive win streak to 15, tying him for third-best in UFC history. The champion secured the win with a swift D’Arce choke, showcasing his dominant grappling skills. Moicano stepped in on short notice after Makhachev’s original opponent, Arman Tsarukyan, withdrew due to injury.

The co-main event also saw a title defense, as Merab Dvalishvili edged out Umar Nurmagomedov via unanimous decision to retain his bantamweight belt. The fight went the full five rounds, with Dvalishvili setting a new UFC record for most takedowns in a career (91), despite battling a back injury and leg infection during training camp. Nurmagomedov, meanwhile, revealed a potential hand injury after the first round.

The card also featured several exciting bouts, including:

* **Light Heavyweight:** Jiri Prochazka defeated Jamahal Hill via TKO in the third round after a back-and-forth battle marred by eye pokes.
* **Heavyweight:** Jailton Almeida scored a stunning knockout victory over Serghei Spivac in the first round.
* **Middleweight:** Reinier de Ridder submitted Kevin Holland in the first round.
* **Bantamweight:** Raoni Barcelos won a unanimous decision against Payton Talbott.

Several other fights rounded out the card, with notable wins for Azamat Bekoev (making his UFC debut), Bogdan Guskov, and Grant Dawson. The event marked only the third UFC event held in Inglewood, following two previous events at The Forum. The UFC also announced Chael Sonnen and Daniel Cormier as the coaches for the upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter.

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