Beneil Dariush has an interesting pick for the UFC lightweight who has the best chance of dethroning Islam Makhachev.

When Arman Tsarukyan pulled out of Saturday’s main event against lightweight champion Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC), the UFC needed a replacement opponent. The two most worthy candidates were Dariush (22-6-1 MMA, 16-6 UFC) and Renato Moicano, who were scheduled to face each other on the main card.

Beneil Dariush recently shared a candid account of how he mistakenly believed he would step in to face Islam Makhachev for the UFC lightweight title at UFC 311.

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.

Beneil Dariush recently named the only fighter he thinks could beat Islam Makhachev in the cage. The UFC lightweight contender also outlined three reasons why he thought so in light of Makhachev's impressive showing against Renato Moicano in his last outing.

Following Islam Makhachev's big win at UFC 311, the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world wants to move up to face Dricus Du Plessis.

Beneil Dariush was left without an opponent, but Dana White promised to ‘take care’ of him. Grant Dawson put on a dominant display as he outpointed Carlos Diego Ferreira at UFC 311. The 23-2-1 lightweight contender picked up unanimous 30-27 scorecards from the cageside judges before using his post-fight mic time to make a call out.

Islam Makhachev extended his reign over the lightweight division with a first-round submission win over Renato Moicano at UFC 311. The victory extended

UFC lightweight contender Beneil Dariush has been removed from the UFC 311 fight card due to a last-minute shakeoff. Originally slated to face Renato Moicano, Dariush's bout was canceled when Moicano was promoted to the main event to challenge reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.