Arman Tsarukyan stands on the edge of a pivotal moment in his career as he prepares to face Islam Makhachev in a rematch for the UFC lightweight championship at UFC 311. For Tsarukyan, this fight is not just about avenging a past loss; it is about proving his evolution as an elite mixed martial artist, cementing his place in the division’s storied history.
Their first encounter in 2019 came during Tsarukyan’s UFC debut. Despite accepting the fight on short notice, his performance against Makhachev, then a rising star, demonstrated his potential. While the decision went in Makhachev’s favor, it marked the start of Tsarukyan’s rise in the UFC. Over the years, he has methodically worked his way up the ranks, showcasing a versatile skill set that makes him a formidable challenger.
The buildup to UFC 311 has been marked by Tsarukyan’s striking physical transformation. Social media has buzzed with photos from his training camp, highlighting his sculpted physique. Fans and critics alike have debated the implications of this transformation. While some laud his dedication, others caution that excessive muscle mass might hinder his endurance. Tsarukyan, however, has emphasized that his training is a balanced approach that enhances both strength and stamina, ensuring he is prepared for the demands of a five-round championship fight.
This rematch carries stakes far greater than their first meeting. Islam Makhachev, now the lightweight champion and the UFC’s pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter, is on the brink of breaking records for title defenses in the division. For Tsarukyan, the fight represents an opportunity to dethrone the reigning champion and claim his place among the division’s greats. As he stated in pre-fight interviews, his well-rounded skill set and growth since their first bout equip him to counter Makhachev’s exceptional wrestling and grappling abilities.
A rematch that HAD to happen
@MAKHACHEVMMA vs @ArmanUFC 2 goes down next week!
Watch #UFC311 Countdown on ESPN2 | January 11 at 3amET pic.twitter.com/uzWYlzg2mr
— UFC (@ufc) January 10, 2025
Tsarukyan’s journey to this moment has been marked by immense sacrifices, including training and cutting weight during his wedding week. These sacrifices reflect his singular focus on reaching the pinnacle of the sport. For Tsarukyan, winning the lightweight championship is not merely a professional milestone but a deeply personal goal, symbolizing years of relentless effort and unwavering ambition.
The lightweight division’s rich history further amplifies the significance of this fight. Legends like Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje have all left their mark on this weight class, making it one of the most competitive in MMA. Tsarukyan’s potential victory over Makhachev would not only disrupt the champion’s dominance but also solidify his own legacy within this illustrious division.
Looking beyond UFC 311, the future of the lightweight division brims with intriguing possibilities. Tsarukyan has expressed interest in facing Ilia Topuria, the reigning featherweight champion, should Topuria move up to lightweight. Such a matchup would draw significant attention and further enhance the division’s reputation as a proving ground for the best in MMA.
As the fight approaches, the MMA world watches with bated breath. For Arman Tsarukyan, this rematch is more than a title shot; it is a chance to rewrite history, to seize redemption, and to carve his name into the annals of combat sports. The outcome of UFC 311 will reverberate throughout the lightweight division, shaping its future and defining the legacy of two extraordinary fighters.
The UFC 311 fight between Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev for the lightweight championship belt is scheduled to take place on January 18, 2025, at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. The fight will headline the event as the main attraction and will be broadcast in a pay-per-view format.
This event has garnered significant attention in the MMA world and is poised to be one of the most anticipated fights of the year.