Tsarukyan Ready to Destroy Makhachev UFC 311 Will Be Challenger’s Nightmare

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s former opponent, Michael Johnson, knows all too well the toughness that comes with facing a fighter like Khabib. This insight is why he’s placing his support firmly behind Islam Makhachev in his upcoming UFC 311 lightweight title defense against Arman Tsarukyan. With UFC 311 being the promotion’s first PPV event of 2025, this fight promises fireworks. Johnson predicts that Makhachev’s continued evolution will be the deciding factor in this high-stakes battle.

The Rising Star: Makhachev’s Growth in the Octagon

While Tsarukyan is often hailed as Makhachev’s toughest challenge to date, Johnson is confident that Makhachev’s growth, much like his mentor Khabib, will continue to shine through. In an appearance on the ‘Overdogs Podcast with Mike Perry,’ Johnson praised Tsarukyan’s ground game but expressed doubt about his ability to challenge Islam.

“I am going to ride with Islam on this one,” said Johnson. “Arman might have the better striking, but from what I’ve seen, Islam is just getting better on his feet.”

Islam Makhachev’s Improved Striking: A Game-Changer

Islam Makhachev’s striking has seen considerable improvement, becoming a potent weapon that enhances his already devastating grappling game. His precision and confidence with his punches have reached new levels, with Makhachev using jabs and kicks to control distance, setting up takedowns with ease. This shift in his striking abilities has made him a more well-rounded fighter, forcing opponents to rethink their strategy when facing him.

Fights like those against Dustin Poirier and Alexander Volkanovski highlight Makhachev’s ability to outstrike top-tier competition. His willingness to rely on his striking, as opposed to his signature grappling, was key to his victories.

Now, as he prepares for Tsarukyan, Makhachev intends to use the same approach to secure a decisive finish and continue his reign as champion.

Islam’s Confidence in a Rematch Five Years in the Making

The upcoming fight with Tsarukyan marks a rematch that has been years in the making. Their first encounter back in 2019 earned Fight of the Night honors, but Makhachev admits he may have underestimated Tsarukyan at the time. “I didn’t really know who he was, and it was short notice,” Makhachev confessed in an interview with ESPN.

Despite some initial challenges in that fight—including Tsarukyan landing successful takedowns—Makhachev is now laser-focused on finishing the fight in dominant fashion, as he did with Volkanovski in their rematch. Makhachev’s improved skills and preparation suggest this bout will not only be about winning but also making a statement.

Tsarukyan’s Road to UFC 311: Makhachev Isn’t Concerned

Arman Tsarukyan earned his title shot by narrowly defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 300, but Makhachev is not losing sleep over this victory. Oliveira came close to finishing Tsarukyan on multiple occasions during their fight, but Tsarukyan’s resilience helped him secure the win.

“I think Oliveira almost finished him a few times,” Makhachev said confidently. Despite this close call, Makhachev’s focus and determination to prove he’s the undisputed king of the lightweight division have never been clearer.

A Fight to Watch: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan at UFC 311

As Islam Makhachev prepares to face Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, fans can expect a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and fierce competition. With Makhachev’s evolving game and Tsarukyan’s hunger for the title, this clash is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated lightweight matchups in recent memory. Get ready for an explosive night in the octagon!