Islam Makhachev exploits the slightest of openings. The American Kickboxing Academy star kept his stranglehold on the undisputed Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight title, as he dismissed Renato "Money" Moicano with a brabo choke in the first round of their UFC 311 headliner on Saturday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood,

Makhachev’s ability to adapt seamlessly to a last-second opponent change was on full display at UFC 311. UFC CEO Dana White revealed Makhachev’s cold response to the news of Tsarukyan’s withdrawal and his desire to continue to fight on the card.

Islam Makhachev wants multi-division championship glory, but one UFC analyst would prefer to see him stick in his own lane.

Islam Makhachev’s D’Arce choke is becoming a signature move after it netted him Submission of the Month honors again in January.

This will be Tsarukyan’s first title fight in the UFC. The Armenian fighter has won each of his last four bouts, including a split decision win at UFC 300 over Charles Oliveira. Tsarukyan has a record of 22-3, with 14 wins coming via knockout or submission.

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev considers it a legitimate possibility that he moves up to 185 pounds and defeats middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis.

UFC president Dana White now believes Islam Makhachev is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world after UFC 311.

Islam Makhachev weighed 178 pounds the night of his UFC 311 victory Saturday — one day after registering at 154.5 pounds — when he submitted Renato Moicano in the first round, according to data obtained by The Post from the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC).

Islam Makhachev will take on Arman Tsyukayan in a rematch in the UFC 311 main event. Learn how you can watch tonight's fights.

UFC star Charles Oliveira has given his thoughts on Islam Makhachev’s victory in the main event of UFC 311.

Ahead of their pay-per-view card on Saturday night, we offer up a round of BOLD UFC 311 predictions. Will Islam Makhachev retain?

Makhachev was initially scheduled to fight No. 1 lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan, but Tsarukyan suffered “significant back pain”. Read more at straitstimes.com.