- George Chung
- Jan 14
- 3 min read
The highly anticipated UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 is set to deliver fireworks on Saturday, January 18, 2025, live from the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. Featuring 14 electrifying MMA bouts, the event will be broadcast via Pay-Per-View, with preliminary fights airing on ESPN.
Headlined by a rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan for the UFC Lightweight Championship, the card also boasts a stacked co-main event for the Bantamweight Championship between Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov. Here's a detailed breakdown of every fight on the card, including key matchups and what fans can expect.
Main Event: UFC Lightweight Championship
Islam Makhachev (C) vs. Arman Tsarukyan
The long-awaited rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan is finally here. Their first encounter saw Makhachev secure a unanimous decision victory, but Tsarukyan has since evolved into a legitimate title contender. Makhachev, known for his grappling dominance and cerebral striking, will look to defend his belt once again. Tsarukyan, on the other hand, aims to showcase improved wrestling and striking to dethrone the champion.
Key Factors:
Makhachev’s elite ground control vs. Tsarukyan’s improved takedown defense.
Tsarukyan’s speed and versatility in striking exchanges.
Co-Main Event: UFC Bantamweight Championship
Merab Dvalishvili (C) vs. Umar Nurmagomedov
A clash of grappling titans, this co-main event promises relentless pace and technical brilliance. Dvalishvili, known for his cardio and high-pressure style, will face the undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov, who combines Dagestani wrestling with pinpoint striking.
Key Factors:
Dvalishvili’s pressure game vs. Nurmagomedov’s counter-wrestling.
Potential for five grueling rounds or a surprise submission finish.
Main Card
Light Heavyweight Bout
Jiří Procházka vs. Jamahal Hill
This light heavyweight bout features two former champions hungry for another shot at the title. Procházka’s unorthodox striking meets Hill’s power and precision in what could be a Fight of the Night contender.
Key Factors:
Procházka’s unpredictability vs. Hill’s knockout power.
Defensive lapses could lead to an early finish.
Lightweight Bout
Beneil Dariush vs. Renato Moicano
Veteran contender Beneil Dariush takes on submission specialist Renato Moicano in a pivotal lightweight matchup. Dariush’s well-rounded skill set and experience may give him the edge, but Moicano’s grappling prowess is always a threat.
Key Factors:
Dariush’s wrestling and striking mix vs. Moicano’s jiu-jitsu.
The potential for a grappling masterclass.
Middleweight Bout
Kevin Holland vs. Reinier de Ridder
In a middleweight clash, Kevin Holland faces off against former ONE Championship titleholder Reinier de Ridder. Holland’s dynamic striking and de Ridder’s grappling-centric style make for an intriguing stylistic matchup.
Key Factors:
Holland’s reach and striking variety vs. de Ridder’s submission game.
Holland’s ability to keep the fight standing.
Preliminary Card
Light Heavyweight Bout
Bogdan Guskov vs. Billy Elekana
Expect fireworks in this light heavyweight bout as Bogdan Guskov, known for his knockout power, faces the rising prospect Billy Elekana.
Bantamweight Bout
Payton Talbott vs. Raoni Barcelos
Payton Talbott looks to make a statement against veteran Raoni Barcelos in what promises to be an action-packed bantamweight bout.
Heavyweight Bout
Jailton Almeida vs. Serghei Spivac
Two heavyweight grapplers collide as Jailton Almeida takes on Serghei Spivac. Almeida’s explosiveness and Spivac’s grinding style should make for an intriguing contest.
Middleweight Bout
Zach Reese vs. Azamat Bekoev
Zach Reese steps into the Octagon to face Azamat Bekoev in a middleweight battle. Both fighters are known for their aggressive approaches.
Lightweight Bout
Grant Dawson vs. Diego Ferreira
Grant Dawson and Diego Ferreira meet in a lightweight bout that could have future ranking implications. Dawson’s grappling vs. Ferreira’s striking will be a key narrative.
Bantamweight Bout
Karol Rosa vs. Ailín Pérez
Karol Rosa and Ailín Pérez square off in a bantamweight bout that could determine future contenders in the division.
Bantamweight Bout
Rinya Nakamura vs. Muin Gafurov
In another exciting bantamweight contest, Rinya Nakamura faces Muin Gafurov. Both fighters are known for their knockout power and fast-paced styles.
Bantamweight Bout
Ricky Turcios vs. Benardo Sopaj
The ever-entertaining Ricky Turcios returns to action against Benardo Sopaj in a fight that promises nonstop action.
Flyweight Bout
Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Clayton Carpenter
Rounding out the prelims, Tagir Ulanbekov takes on Clayton Carpenter in a flyweight showdown. Ulanbekov’s grappling vs. Carpenter’s striking should provide an exciting contrast.
With two title fights headlining a card filled with high-stakes matchups across multiple divisions, UFC 311 is shaping up to be one of the biggest events of 2025. From Makhachev’s title defense against a surging Tsarukyan to the co-main event clash of bantamweight elites, the night promises drama, action, and potential upsets.
Don’t miss UFC 311 live on Pay-Per-View and catch the prelims on ESPN! Get ready for an unforgettable night of MMA action from Los Angeles!
