Arman Tsarukyan receives constant threats from competitors.
The highly anticipated rematch between lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and top contender Arman Tsarukyan is set to headline UFC 311. This pay-per-view event, kicking off 2025, will take place at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The fight promises to be a defining moment in both fighters’ careers, as Makhachev has boldly declared his intention to finish Tsarukyan.
A Look Back: Their First Fight
The two fighters first crossed paths at UFC Fight Night 149 in April 2019. It was Tsarukyan’s UFC debut, and despite the short notice, he put on a valiant performance. However, it was Makhachev who walked away with a unanimous decision victory, securing all three rounds on two judges’ scorecards. While Makhachev’s dominance was clear, Tsarukyan showcased flashes of brilliance, setting the stage for this much-anticipated rematch nearly six years later.
Tsarukyan’s Rise to No. 1 Contender
In the years since their first encounter, Tsarukyan has climbed the lightweight ranks with a string of impressive victories, earning his spot as the No. 1 contender. “I knew five or six months ago that I’d be fighting Arman,” Makhachev revealed during an interview with UFC legend Daniel Cormier. “He’s earned this title shot and deserves to fight for the belt.”
Despite acknowledging Tsarukyan’s rise, Makhachev remains skeptical of his evolution, stating, “He’s improved with experience, but he still has the same skills.”
The Champion’s Confidence
Makhachev firmly believes that his grappling superiority remains the deciding factor. “He’s beaten guys who don’t have wrestling, but whenever he faces someone with strong wrestling, he struggles,” the champion remarked. Reflecting on their initial bout, Makhachev admitted to underestimating Tsarukyan, who was an unknown prospect at the time.
“He gave me a hard time because I didn’t know his background. He defended my wrestling well and was tough,” Makhachev explained. “But now, I know everything about him.”
A Personal Mission to Silence Critics
Makhachev, known for his cerebral approach, is on a mission to eliminate any lingering doubts. “When I fought [Alexander] Volkanovski the second time, I told everyone I’d finish the questions—and I did. Now, with Tsarukyan, I’m looking for the finish to make everyone shut up,” Makhachev said emphatically.
Acknowledging Tsarukyan’s tenacity, Makhachev called their first fight one of his hardest, though not the toughest. “The five rounds with Volkanovski were crazier. My heart rate was through the roof. But back then, I underestimated Arman because nobody knew him, and I hadn’t seen his fights.”
Tactical Analysis: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan
In his analysis of Tsarukyan’s fights against top competitors, Makhachev noted vulnerabilities. “Charles [Oliveira] almost finished him every round—with guillotines, triangle chokes, and more. I think I have even more chances to finish him.”
This assessment underscores Makhachev’s confidence in his submission game, honed under the tutelage of the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Tsarukyan, while improved, will need to address these gaps if he hopes to dethrone the champion.
Building Anticipation for UFC 311
As fight night approaches, the MMA world is buzzing with excitement. The rematch promises a clash of elite grappling and evolved striking, with the lightweight title hanging in the balance. Will Makhachev’s unmatched wrestling and composure secure another dominant victory, or will Tsarukyan’s growth and determination propel him to an upset?
Fans won’t have to wait long for answers, as UFC 311 is poised to deliver one of the most electrifying showdowns in lightweight history.
