UFC 311 Set for Explosive Islam Makhachev vs Arman Tsarukyan 2 Lightweight Showdown

Islam Makhachev (left), Arman Tsarukyan (right)

The highly anticipated rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan is officially set for UFC 311 in January. This exciting news was confirmed after Nurmagomedov MMA School posted a fight poster on Instagram, featuring both fighters. It marks the return of the lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, who last stepped into the octagon at UFC 302, where he secured a fifth-round submission victory against Dustin Poirier.

Arman Tsarukyan, on the other hand, earned his title shot with a split-decision win over Charles Oliveira earlier this year. Fans have been eagerly waiting for this bout, which was initially linked to December but had to be postponed due to an injury sustained by Makhachev. The two have now signed the deal to meet in January, making the rematch official.

This fight will take place nearly six years after their first encounter at UFC Russia in April 2019, where a then-unknown Arman Tsarukyan stepped in on short notice to challenge Makhachev. Despite putting up a strong performance, Tsarukyan lost by unanimous decision. Now, with UFC gold on the line, this rematch promises to be even more thrilling as both fighters have significantly evolved since their last meeting.

In a recent interview, Khabib Nurmagomedov confirmed Makhachev’s return to the octagon but left fans wondering about the exact details. "The Eagle" did not specify the timing or the opponent, but the fight poster has now made it clear—Makhachev and Tsarukyan are set to collide in Los Angeles on January 18th.