- George Chung
- Jan 16
- 2 min read
Islam Makhachev isn’t just fighting to defend his UFC Lightweight Championship—he’s fighting to erase every shred of doubt about his dominance. As the pound-for-pound king prepares to meet Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 311, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
From his debut in the Octagon, Makhachev’s goal was clear: prove he’s the best in the world. With a 14-fight win streak, three successful title defenses, and victories over some of the sport’s elite, including Alexander Volkanovski and Dustin Poirier, Makhachev has already built a resume worthy of the Hall of Fame. But for this 33-year-old Dagestani phenomenon, greatness is about leaving no questions unanswered.
A Familiar Foe: Revisiting the Arman Tsarukyan Challenge
Makhachev’s upcoming opponent is no stranger. Nearly five years ago, a young and unheralded Tsarukyan gave Makhachev one of the toughest fights of his career. That 2019 bout in Saint Petersburg saw Makhachev earn a unanimous decision victory, but it was far from a cakewalk.
“Maybe I underestimated him,” Makhachev admitted, reflecting on their first meeting. “It was short notice, and I didn’t know him, but he gave me a hard time.”
Fast forward to today, Tsarukyan is no longer the inexperienced debutant. The Armenian standout has stormed his way through the division, earning nine wins in his last ten fights, including a jaw-dropping knockout of Beneil Dariush and a split-decision triumph over Charles Oliveira. Now, he’s poised to challenge for the belt.
A Legacy on the Line
For Makhachev, this fight isn’t just another title defense; it’s a chance to prove why he’s the undisputed king of the lightweight division. “I like to finish the old questions,” Makhachev said, determined to show the world he’s levels above Tsarukyan.
Rematches aren’t his favorite, but Makhachev sees the advantages. “When I fight someone a second time, I know everything they can do. There are no surprises,” he explained. “Arman is tough, but I’ve studied him. I know how to finish him.”
And a finish is exactly what Makhachev is aiming for. Tsarukyan showed resilience against Oliveira, narrowly escaping several submissions, but Makhachev believes he has the skills to succeed where others have fallen short.
“Charles almost finished him multiple times,” Makhachev remarked. “I think I have an even better chance to get it done.”
What’s Next for Makhachev?
With his eyes firmly set on January 18, Makhachev is already considering the future. If he defeats Tsarukyan, he hinted at a potential move to welterweight to chase a second belt. “I need a second belt. Belal [Muhammad] is there, and there are many good fighters at welterweight,” he teased.
But first, he must overcome Tsarukyan, a fighter he respects as a worthy contender. “It’s going to be a huge fight for the fans,” Makhachev said. “He has all the skills—striking, wrestling, grappling. This is what makes the fight exciting.”
Don’t Miss UFC 311: A Night of Answers
The highly anticipated rematch headlines UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 on January 18, 2025, live from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Will Makhachev solidify his legacy, or will Tsarukyan pull off a shocking upset? Catch the action live! Prelims start at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT, and the main card kicks off on PPV at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT.
