Islam Makhachev Defends Lightweight Title with Dominant Submission Victory Over Charles Oliveira at UFC 298

Islam Makhachev continued his dominant reign as UFC lightweight champion on Friday night at Honda Center in Anaheim, submitting former champion Charles Oliveira with a rear-naked choke in the third round of their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 298 in front of a sold-out crowd of 17,500 passionate mixed martial arts fans.

The 32-year-old Dagestani fighter controlled the majority of the contest with his superior wrestling and grappling, repeatedly taking Oliveira to the ground and maintaining dominant positions while searching for the finishing opportunity that finally presented itself midway through the third round when he secured back control and locked in the fight-ending submission.

Charles is one of the greatest lightweights of all time, but tonight I showed that my level is higher, Makhachev said during his post-fight octagon interview. I have been training with the best team in the world in Dagestan, and every camp we get better. I want to fight anyone who thinks they can take my belt - I am ready for all challengers.

Oliveira, who entered the fight as the betting favorite due to his dangerous submission skills and improved takedown defense, struggled to find answers for Makhachev relentless pressure and chain wrestling. The Brazilian former champion managed moments of success on the feet but could not keep the fight in the positions where his striking and submission threats were most dangerous.

The victory extends Makhachev winning streak to 13 fights and represents his third successful title defense since capturing the belt in 2022. His combination of elite wrestling, improving striking, and championship-level cardio has established him as one of the pound-for-pound best fighters in the sport and the clear king of arguably UFC most competitive division.

With his victory over Oliveira, Makhachev has now defeated the three most recent lightweight champions before him, adding to previous wins over Charles Oliveira and Dustin Poirier. His dominance has drawn comparisons to his mentor and training partner Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired as an undefeated champion with a similar wrestling-heavy style.

UFC President Dana White praised Makhachev performance and suggested that the champion could be headed toward super-fight opportunities against champions from other divisions. Islam has proven he is the best lightweight in the world, and now we can start talking about legacy fights that will define his place in MMA history, White said during the post-fight press conference.

Makhachev next title defense is expected to take place this summer, with several contenders including Justin Gaethje and the winner of an upcoming bout between Beneil Dariush and Arman Tsarukyan positioning themselves for championship opportunities.