UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is officially set to face Arman Tsarukyan in the main event of UFC 311 on January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. This marks a highly awaited rematch between the two elite fighters, with Makhachev looking to defend his title for the fourth time.
Makhachev, considered the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC, last fought in June, submitting Dustin Poirier with a fifth-round D’Arce choke to retain his championship. He also holds previous title defenses over Alexander Volkanovski. The Dagestani fighter first captured the lightweight belt in 2022 by defeating Charles Oliveira via arm-triangle submission at UFC 280.
However, the stakes are different this time around. Arman Tsarukyan, who currently sits as the number one lightweight contender, fought his way back to Makhachev by securing a controversial split decision victory over Oliveira earlier this year at UFC 300.
The decision sparked debates, but it was enough to earn him a rematch against the reigning champion. Tsarukyan has also built an impressive resume, with wins over top names like Beneil Dariush, Damir Ismagulov, and Olivier Aubin-Mercier during his recent four-fight winning streak.
Their first encounter dates back to UFC Fight Night in 2019, where Makhachev defeated Tsarukyan in a hard-fought unanimous decision.
That fight was Tsarukyan’s UFC debut, and it quickly showcased his high-level skill and promise as a rising contender. Now, after years of growth, he is eager to erase that loss in what will be the biggest fight of his career.
UFC CEO Dana White announced the blockbuster bout on social media, also revealing that a bantamweight clash between Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov would feature on the same card.
White posted on X, formerly Twitter:
“Makhachev vs Tsarukyan and Dvalishvili vs Nurmagomedov is LIVE January 18th from @intuitdome, California! #UFC311”
With Makhachev dominating the lightweight division and Tsarukyan proving himself as one of the most dangerous challengers, this rematch promises fireworks. Fans will be watching closely to see how Tsarukyan’s skills have evolved since their first meeting, while Makhachev aims to continue his reign at the top.
The co-main event, featuring Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov, adds an extra level of excitement to a stacked UFC 311 card.
UFC 311 is expected to begin 2025 with a bang, and all eyes will be on the January 18 event as Makhachev and Tsarukyan step into the Octagon for a second time.
