As 2024 wraps up, the UFC has revealed its Submission of the Year, and it’s a surprising choice for many. Despite expectations that Khamzat Chimaev would dominate the list, the honor goes to Islam Makhachev for his stunning victory over Dustin Poirier. This marks a major recognition of Makhachev’s grappling and his exceptional skills in securing the win, even though the year was filled with standout performances across the board.
The UFC 302 headliner fight earns the title of Submission of the Year, and it’s clear to see why. Islam Makhachev held onto his UFC lightweight title with a gritty fifth-round submission over Dustin Poirier. He controlled the early rounds with his grappling, but Poirier didn’t make it easy, battling through a bloody, back-and-forth fight.
In the final round, Makhachev rocked Poirier, locked in a guillotine, then quickly switched to a D’arce choke, getting the tap and proving why he’s the champ. Despite other incredible submissions from fighters like Khamzat Chimaev and Paddy Pimblett, it was Makhachev’s performance that stood out to the UFC as the submission of the year. For the UFC, it’s Makhachev’s pound-for-pound excellence that made this submission truly unforgettable.
Islam Makhachev Set To Outshine Khabib Nurmagomedov
Makhachev’s last victory marks his third straight successful title defense, pushing his win streak to 14. He now shares the record for most consecutive title defenses in the lightweight division with four other fighters. Makhachev is also just two wins away from surpassing Anderson Silva’s legendary record for consecutive UFC victories, proving his place as one of the most dominant forces in the sport today. His reign in the lightweight division shows no signs of slowing down. And now with one win, he’ll surpass Khabib as well.
It’s impossible to ignore that Khabib Nurmagomedov ended his career early, and had he fought longer, his stats could’ve been even more impressive. But for Khabib, it was never about the numbers; it was about his legacy and his fighting spirit.
If Makhachev surpasses Khabib’s record for consecutive UFC lightweight title defenses, he sets a new benchmark for their team. This milestone highlights their dominance in the lightweight division, proving they are just getting started.
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