- George Chung
- Dec 5, 2024
- 2 min read
UFC 311 Main Event Poster via ufc.com
The highly anticipated rematch between reigning UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev vs rising contender Arman Tsarukyan has been confirmed as the main event of UFC 311, scheduled for Jan 18, 2025.
This blockbuster fight promises fireworks, as both fighters are riding impressive win streaks and have shown exceptional growth since their first clash in 2019.
In their initial meeting, which served as Tsarukyan’s UFC debut, fans witnessed an intense, grappling-heavy battle that earned Fight of the Night honors. Tsarukyan pushed the now-champion to the limit, showcasing his skills in one of Makhachev’s toughest tests to date. However, Makhachev’s relentless pace and four successful takedowns secured a unanimous decision victory, cementing his dominance in the lightweight division.
Since then, Makhachev has gone on an extraordinary nine-fight winning streak, extending his overall streak to 14. His run includes capturing the lightweight title with a masterful performance against Charles Oliveira and successfully defending it three times—twice against Alexander Volkanovski and most recently with a victory over Dustin Poirier.
Meanwhile, Tsarukyan has surged up the rankings, winning nine of his last 10 bouts. His impressive resume includes a first-round knockout of Beneil Dariush and a razor-thin split decision win over former champion Oliveira. With both fighters operating at their peak, this rematch is already being billed as one of the most compelling matchups in lightweight history.
Co-Main Event: Dvalishvili vs. Nurmagomedov for the Bantamweight Title
The co-main event features another electrifying showdown as reigning UFC Bantamweight Champion Merab Dvalishvili takes on undefeated phenom Umar Nurmagomedov.
Dvalishvili captured UFC gold in September at UFC 306, dethroning Sean O’Malley in dominant fashion. Riding an incredible 11-fight win streak, the Georgian has earned his spot as one of the most formidable fighters in the division, with victories over high-profile opponents like Henry Cejudo, José Aldo, and Petr Yan.
However, Dvalishvili now faces perhaps his toughest challenge in Nurmagomedov. Boasting an impeccable 18-0 professional record, Nurmagomedov is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous bantamweights in the world. He enters the bout following a commanding unanimous decision victory over Cory Sandhagen, proving his readiness for the title shot.
With two high-stakes bouts headlining UFC 311, this event is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated fight cards of the year. Fans can expect nothing short of spectacular performances as these elite athletes compete for supremacy in their respective divisions.
