Beneil Dariush Losses: Who Has the UFC Lightweight Lost to in His Career?

Beneil Dariush is a name that echoes through the UFC’s lightweight division as a skilled technician who has climbed the ranks with grit and grace. He began his combat sports journey in 2007 when he started training in BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu). In fact, he earned his black belt in just 5 years, a testament to his talent and dedication! Currently holding the no.9 spot in the lightweight division, he’s seen highs and lows, victories and defeats. But it’s the losses that often tell the most compelling stories.

What makes a fighter truly remarkable isn’t just their victories but how they rise from defeat. And Dariush’s career showcases both triumphs and setbacks. From heart-wrenching knockouts to submission losses, each stumble has been a stepping stone. So, who are the warriors that managed to halt his momentum? Let’s step into the Octagon and revisit the pivotal moments that shaped his career!

Who has Beneil Dariush lost to?

Beneil Dariush tasted defeat for the first time at UFC Fight Night 39 in 2014. Ramsey Nijem, buoyed by the crowd’s support, delivered a brutal first-round TKO. A left hook from Nijem sent Dariush to the canvas, followed by relentless strikes that forced the referee to step in. Just like that, the unbeaten streak of a promising fighter came to an abrupt end.

In 2016, Michael Chiesa handed Dariush his second loss at UFC on FOX 19. Chiesa’s grappling expertise was on full display as he locked in a rear-naked choke during the second round. Dariush resisted valiantly, but Chiesa’s technique proved too much, ending Dariush’s five-fight winning streak.

UFC Fight Night 106 in 2017 brought another dramatic loss. Facing Edson Barboza, a perfectly timed flying knee caught him flush in the second round. It was a highlight-reel finish that left fans stunned and Dariush regrouping.

A year later, at UFC 222, Dariush was matched against late replacement Alexander Hernandez. Despite being a heavy favorite, the lightweight star fell to a first-round knockout.

In 2023, Charles Oliveira, a former lightweight champion, reminded everyone of his dominance at UFC 289, finishing Dariush in the first round. And most recently, in a showdown against Arman Tsarukyan, Dariush was again stopped in the first round as Tsarukyan’s precise right hand and follow-up strikes sealed the deal.

Beneil Dariush’s MMA record and stats

With a professional record of 22-6-1, Beneil Dariush has solidified himself as a versatile and dangerous competitor. His stats tell the story of a well-rounded fighter: a striking accuracy of 48%, a takedown defense of 80%, and an average of nearly two takedowns per fight. He absorbs fewer strikes than he lands, showing both aggression and durability.

Dariush isn’t just about the numbers, though. His losses, though painful, have been pivotal in molding him into the skilled and seasoned competitor he is today. From devastating knockouts to grueling submissions, each setback has been a lesson, a reminder that the road to greatness is rarely smooth. With a record that speaks volumes and a fighting style that blends technique with heart, Dariush continues to captivate fans and fellow fighters alike.

With his upcoming fight against Renato Moicano at UFC 311, fans are eager to see how he continues to evolve. In a conversation with MMA Junkie at the pre-fight news conference, Dariush confessed, “I feel great right now. I’m just looking forward to the fight. As far as retirement goes, one day you just know you don’t have it. If that’s the case, we’re done.” So, will this be another chapter in his redemption arc? Or could it signal a turning point in his storied career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!