For lightweight, Renato Moicano will have difficulties at UFC 311

Renato Moicano derrotou Benoit Saint-Denis No. UFC Paris (Photo: Instagram/UFC)

While Renato Moicano is experiencing one of the most interesting rises in recent times, for some, this series of victories could end in eight days. Close to facing Beneil Dariush on the main card of UFC 311, the Brazilian should face greater difficulties in the confrontation, at least for the current sixth place in the ranking of the lightweight category (up to 70,3 kg.), Dan Hooker.

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For the New Zealander, replicating the strategies used in recent presentations will be a difficult task for the Brazilian, due to the high level that Dariush has in grappling.

“The way (Moicano) won Benoit Saint-Denis, (Jalin) Turner and Drew dober, the style he acted to get these three victories, he can't do against Beneil Darirush. He can't overcome Beneil Dariush how he beat those three guys, because he's just too good," Hooker said on the channel. Israel adesanya, your training partner, on YouTube.

Dan Hooker comes from victory over Mateusz gamrot No. UFC 305. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc

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In addition to the grappling, Hooker seemed to doubt Moicano's chances in the fight as a whole, also citing the difference in the level of exchange between the two.

“In my opinion, Beneil is technically the better grappler. Do I see Moicano outperforming him on the feet? That would be a tough night at the office. With Beneil, it’s obviously about the chin. But is Moicano in any way a gifted striker? No. You can’t say he is. I feel like (Dariush) is going to shut down Moicano’s game,” he concluded.

Renato Moicano has only one loss at lightweight

Moicano experienced an impressive rise in popularity in 2024 with a series of victories inside the octagon and remarkable interviews outside of it. At 35 years old, the jiu-jitsu black belt has five consecutive triumphs and with one more, he could become part of the top 5 of the most populous division of the Ultimate. Since making the full transition to the most populous category of the UFC, he has only been defeated by Raphael Fizievin December 2020.

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Brazilian UFC fighter Renato Moicano made headlines after declaring his love for capitalism, freedom of speech, and the 2nd Amendment. @moicanoufc's story mirrors that of millions… pic.twitter.com/d1CeB8LqAl

— Students For Liberty (@sfliberty) January 7, 2025