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After much waiting, Islam Makhachev eventually established his dominance as the world's top lightweight.
After knocking Charles Oliveira to the ground, Makhachev finished the UFC 280 main event in commanding style by securing a devastating arm-triangle choke. This was Makhachev's first chance to win the gold medal. At 3:16 in round 2, Oliveira tapped Makhachev, who was immediately greeted by his coach and longtime teammate Khabib Nurmagomedov.
“I trained so hard for this moment,” Makhachev said afterwards. “I want to say thank you. I always think this is not going to be an easy fight. He always pushes opponents but I know he’s going to be scared of my wrestling skills. I said this is my goal and Allah give me.
“My belt for my coach for Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. He said training hard and you’re going to be champion. [Khabib’s] father made me.”
Makhachev gave an amazing performance, engaging Oliveira fearlessly both on the feet and on the ground throughout the fight.
Before Oliveira actually grasped the guard and brought the fight to the ground during the opening exchange, Makhachev caught him with a sharp left hand. While Makhachev was suffocating with his control on top, Oliveira was quick to attack with submissions off his back.
In order to counteract Oliveira's constantly moving legs and potential armbar or triangle choke attempts, Makhachev took care to remain close to the jiu-jitsu expert. Makhachev continued to beat Oliveira while he was on the ground, and he was unable to find a way out.
Makhachev jumped on Oliveira and was seeking for the finish as soon as he touched the ground. Oliveira tapped out in the span of a single second after Makhachev applied the arm-triangle choke, beating the all-time UFC submissions leader.