"CTE is a crazy thing" - Fans react to Renato Moicano's brutally honest prediction for Islam Makhachev short-notice title fight at UFC 311 

Renato Moicano’s bold prediction for his short-notice title fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 has sparked mixed reactions among fans. After stepping in for Arman Tsarukyan, who withdrew due to injury, Moicano expressed unwavering confidence, claiming that he would shock the world and defeat Makhachev.

Speaking about the fight in an interview with UFC, Moicano said:

"I think I will beat Islam tomorrow. I truly believe that. I'm not going to try and sell anybody that [the idea of beating Makhachev]. But I believe inside my heart that he's in trouble tomorrow. That's what I feel."

Check out Renato Moicano's comments below:

Fans took to X to react to Moicano's comments with mixed reactions and wrote:

"CTE is a crazy thing."

"He wouldn’t be in the position he’s in if he didn’t believe it. I wish him the best of luck and hope for a great fight!"

"Keep dreaming bro."

"Like his confidence, like his style but Islam man that’s gonna be a hell of a though matchup! Best of luck man and big respect for taking that fight on short notice."

Check out some of the fan reactions below:

Fans react to Renato Moicano's comments ahead of UFC 311. [Screenshots courtesy: @ChampRDS on X]

Moicano boasts an impressive MMA record with notable achievements despite being a significant underdog in the fight against Makhachev. He is tied for fourth with Charles Oliveira and Brendan Allen for the most rear-naked choke submissions in UFC history (6).

He holds the third-highest top-position percentage in UFC Lightweight history (51.5%). The Brazilian was also awarded UFC's 2024 Fan's Choice Comeback of the Year and has cemented his status as a fan-favorite fighter.

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Beneil Dariush responds to Renato Moicano stepping in to face Islam Makhachev

Beneil Dariush expressed disappointment after his UFC 311 opponent, Renato Moicano, was called up to face Islam Makhachev. Originally set to face Moicano, Dariush was left without a fight after Arman Tsarukyan withdrew due to a back injury.

In a statement posted on his Instagram account, Dariush acknowledged being "the odd man out" and confirmed he wouldn't be competing at UFC 311. He appreciated the UFC’s support and Dana White’s commitment to taking care of him financially. He wrote:

"Family and friends, unfortunately I’m not fighting tomorrow. Due to changes in the card I been left as the odd man out. I appreciate @danawhite and @ufc for giving me an opportunity to fight in my home town and taking care of me even though I’m not fighting. I believe God has something better for me and I will wait faithfully to see how it unfolds."

Check out Beniel Dariush's Instagram post below: