Makhachev, 33, takes a 26-1 record into the fight that includes a division-record 14-match winning streak. He claimed his first championship Oct. 22, 2022, in a second-round submission of Charles Oliveira. Makhachev since twice defended his title against Alexander Volkanovski and once against Dustin Poirier.

After his stellar 2024, Payton Talbott has the world's support, and rightfully so. That said, Raoni Barcelos is a perfect veteran test for him at UFC 311, making these wide odds incredibly dangerous.