Only Two Fighters EVER Took Down Islam Makhachev, And One Just Got Cut By the UFC
Hold up, fight fans, did you hear this? The UFC just made a move that's got everyone scratching their heads, parting ways with lightweight veteran Thiago Moises. This isn't just some random roster shuffle, folks. Moises, who's been a fixture in the octagon for years, is officially off the roster after his last fight in April. You gotta wonder what's going on when a guy with his resume gets shown the door, especially after a super close split decision loss at UFC Winnipeg.
From Contender to the Elite, With a Makhachev Takedown!
Moises came into the UFC hot back in 2018, snagging a first-round knockout on Dana White's Contender Series. He immediately jumped into the deep end, going toe-to-toe with some of the nastiest dudes in the division. The dude wasn't afraid to finish a fight either, getting submissions in half of his UFC wins. We're talking locking up King Green, Christos Giagos, and Melquizael Costa, making 'em tap out. That's pure grit right there, a true fight fan's kind of fighter.
Trade on Every Game with Kalshi
Click Here to sign up to Kalshi — Free $10 when you sign up using our link or use code: ONTAPSEA. The only federally regulated prediction market in the US. Trade on real sports outcomes. Available in all 50 states.
But here's the kicker, the stat that should make every single fan sit up and pay attention: Thiago Moises is one of only two fighters to ever score a takedown on the future lightweight and welterweight champion, Islam Makhachev, inside the UFC octagon. Let that sink in. Islam Makhachev, the guy who's practically untouchable on the mat, and Moises got him down. That's a legacy right there, a moment that tells you everything about the kind of talent Moises brings to the cage.
The Numbers Tell a Story, But What's Next?
Over his UFC career, Moises stacked up an 8-8 record under the company's banner, bringing his professional record to 19-10. It's a tough game, man, and going 8-8 in the most brutal promotion on the planet is no joke, especially when you're facing elite competition every single night. His last outing in Canada, that split decision loss to Gauge Young, must have been a heartbreaker, but it was far from a blowout.
So, what does this actually mean for Moises? While he's been removed from the roster now, the promotion could still bring him back down the line. But as of today, he's a free agent. You gotta feel for a guy who's put so much on the line, delivering finishes and even making a future champ hit the mat. We'll be keeping an eye on where Moises lands next, because a fighter with that kind of skill and history against the best doesn't just disappear. Keep fighting, Thiago, the Emerald City is watching!
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.