Makhachev Advised to Stay on Feet Against Tsarukyan Could This Be His Biggest Mistake

Islam Makhachev is gearing up for a highly anticipated rematch against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311—a showdown six years in the making. The fight promises to be one of the most exciting lightweight contests of 2025, with both fighters eager to prove themselves on the biggest stage. Known for his dominant grappling, Makhachev has faced criticism for potentially relying too much on his ground game, which begs the question: Could he benefit from a more strike-heavy approach this time around?

Joe Solecki’s Bold Suggestion: Striking Over Grappling

In the build-up to UFC 311, fellow lightweight Joe Solecki offered a controversial take on Makhachev’s strategy. Solecki believes that Makhachev could fare well by staying on his feet and using strikes to wear down Tsarukyan rather than rushing into the ground game. “I don’t think it’s the worst idea for Islam to stay on his feet until he tires him out,” Solecki remarked, highlighting Tsarukyan’s grappling prowess. Arman has shown a remarkable ability to stuff takedowns and even take down opponents himself—meaning Makhachev may want to avoid risking being in a vulnerable position on the mat.

Islam Makhachev’s Evolution: Striking Meets Sambo

Makhachev himself has often downplayed his wrestling roots, citing his background in combat sambo, which blends both striking and grappling. However, his striking has improved dramatically in recent years, largely due to his work with the American Kickboxing Academy and coach Javier Mendez. Although still a work in progress, Makhachev’s ability to mix in feints and pivots—especially from his southpaw stance—has created some real excitement around his potential in the stand-up game. This evolution may be just the edge he needs against an opponent like Tsarukyan, who has shown he can handle elite-level wrestling.

The Mindset of Mendez: Small Tweaks, Big Differences

Coach Javier Mendez, who has been pivotal in Makhachev’s development, emphasizes the importance of small tweaks in a fighter’s game at the highest level. “You can still improve, but you cannot improve tremendously. It’s the smallest changes that can make the biggest difference,” Mendez explains. This philosophy could see Makhachev blend striking improvements with his already dangerous ground game, making him an even more formidable force against a fighter like Tsarukyan.

Islam Makhachev’s Kickboxing: A New Weapon in His Arsenal

Makhachev’s kicking game has come a long way, and it was on full display during his UFC 294 rematch with Alexander Volkanovski. Makhachev kept the challenger at bay with precise low kicks and ended the fight with a spectacular head kick that left fans and analysts alike stunned. If Makhachev can integrate this weapon effectively against Tsarukyan, it could tip the scales in his favor, especially since Arman hasn’t faced a fighter with such versatility in both striking and grappling.

Can Tsarukyan Handle Makhachev’s Striking and Grappling?

The question remains: Can Arman Tsarukyan handle Islam Makhachev’s mix of striking and grappling? The first time these two fighters clashed, Tsarukyan not only stuffed takedowns but also landed a few of his own, demonstrating a well-rounded skill set. Since then, Arman has made significant improvements, but he has never faced a fighter who combines perfectly executed takedowns with the ability to outstrike opponents in such an impressive fashion.

The Stage Is Set: Who Will Prevail at UFC 311?

As the rematch approaches, all eyes are on UFC 311 to see whether Islam Makhachev will once again demonstrate his mastery of the ground game or choose a more striking-heavy approach. With Tsarukyan’s growing confidence and Makhachev’s evolving skill set, this battle promises to be one of the most dynamic in UFC history. The stakes have never been higher, and fans can’t wait to see which fighter will come out on top. Prepare for fireworks at UFC 311