- George Chung
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
Nearly five years ago, a 22-year-old Arman Tsarukyan stepped into the Octagon for his UFC debut against one of the most feared rising contenders, Islam Makhachev.
It was a baptism of fire for the young Armenian, who, despite suffering a decision loss, proved his mettle by pushing the now lightweight kingpin to his limits. Fast forward to January 18, 2025, and Tsarukyan has earned the rematch he’s been chasing ever since—a shot at redemption and the UFC lightweight title in the main event of UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2, live from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
A Debut That Launched a Dream
Facing Makhachev in April 2019 at UFC Saint Petersburg wasn’t just a fight—it was an acid test. Despite stepping in on just three weeks' notice, Tsarukyan displayed elite grappling and striking skills, making it clear that he belonged in the upper echelon of the lightweight division. Reflecting on that experience, Tsarukyan admitted that while he fell short, it only fueled his hunger to improve.
“I didn’t have enough time to prepare, but there are no excuses. That fight taught me a lot,” Tsarukyan said. “I knew right then that I would fight him again, but next time, I’d be ready to win.”
The Ascent to Title Contender
Since that fateful debut, Tsarukyan has transformed himself into a bona fide title contender. With a 9-1 record since his first fight with Makhachev, Tsarukyan has dismantled top-tier competition and currently rides a four-fight win streak. His most notable victory came at UFC 300, where he edged out former champion Charles Oliveira via split decision in a grueling five-round war.
Now standing at 19-3 in his professional career, Tsarukyan believes he’s never been more prepared to claim UFC gold. “I’m a different fighter now—more experienced, more powerful, and more strategic. I’ve evolved in every aspect of my game.”
Makhachev’s Dominance—and Vulnerabilities?
While Tsarukyan has been on a tear, Makhachev has been equally unstoppable. Since their first encounter, the reigning champion has racked up nine more wins, including a victory over Alexander Volkanovski, cementing himself as the UFC’s top pound-for-pound fighter. Despite Makhachev’s dominance, Tsarukyan remains unfazed.
“He’s not as unbeatable as people think. I took him down when I was just 22 years old. I’ve grown since then, and I know I can do it again,” Tsarukyan declared confidently. “He’s human, and I’m going to prove that on fight night.”
A Battle of Styles and Strategies
With both fighters boasting elite grappling and ever-improving striking, the rematch promises to be a tactical chess match. Tsarukyan, however, plans to bring more than just strategy—he’s bringing relentless pressure and power.
“I’m young, I’m hungry, and I’ve got something he doesn’t—a burning desire to prove everyone wrong. I know he has a plan, but as Mike Tyson said, ‘Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.’ I’m going to hit him hard, break his rhythm, and make him forget that plan.”
A Shot at History
For Tsarukyan, UFC 311 isn’t just about avenging a past loss—it’s about realizing a lifelong dream. “I’ve been dreaming of this moment for five years. Every morning, every night, I think about that belt. It’s what drives me, and now, it’s within reach.”
As the countdown to UFC 311 begins, fans eagerly anticipate a historic night where a young challenger seeks to dethrone a dominant champion. Will Tsarukyan’s hunger and evolution be enough to overcome Makhachev’s experience and skill? The world will find out on January 18.
Don’t miss UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2, live on Pay-Per-View from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Prelims kick off at 8pm ET/5pm PT, followed by the main card at 10pm ET/7pm PT.
