The UFC 311 event is set to redefine MMA history with the most awaited rematch of the year—Islam Makhachev vs Arman Tsarukyan. Fans, particularly in the USA, are excited as the lightweight champion defends his title against a rival who has proven himself to be one of the most versatile and determined contenders in the UFC lightweight division.
This rematch isn’t just about the belt; it’s about how far both fighters have come since their first encounter in 2019. With years of experience, improved skill sets, and a drive to be the best, Islam vs Arman is shaping up to be one of the greatest bouts in UFC Octagon history. Let’s look in-depth at why this fight matters and what fans can expect.
The First Chapter: Islam vs Arman in 2019
Back in 2019, a relatively unknown Arman Tsarukyan made his debut against the rising star, Islam Makhachev, at a Fight Night event in Russia. While Makhachev won via unanimous decision, Tsarukyan impressed fans and analysts alike with his resilience and ability to compete with one of the best grapplers in the world.
Key Takeaways from Their First Fight
- Ground Battle: The fight was dominated by grappling exchanges, showcasing elite scrambles and transitions.
- Makhachev’s Control: Makhachev’s ability to control Tsarukyan on the ground earned him the victory.
- Tsarukyan’s Potential: Despite the loss, Tsarukyan proved he had the tools to compete with the best, earning “Fight of the Night” honors.
The fight wasn’t just a stepping stone for Makhachev but also a wake-up call for Tsarukyan, who went on to evolve his game. Six years later, this rematch will be a battle between two completely transformed fighters.
Islam Makhachev: From Rising Star to Champion
Islam Makhachev is more than a fighter; he is the embodiment of discipline and legacy. Hailing from Dagestan, Makhachev has been trained under the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov at the Nurmagomedov MMA School, where he refined his grappling and wrestling techniques to perfection.
A Look at Makhachev’s Dominance
Since his 2019 victory over Tsarukyan, Makhachev has been on an unstoppable run, claiming the UFC lightweight title in 2022. He has since defended his title three times against some of the toughest fighters in the division.
Notable Career Highlights
- Title Victory: Defeated Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 to win the lightweight belt.
- Title Defenses: Successfully defended against Dustin Poirier, Beneil Dariush, and Rafael dos Anjos.
- Win Record: An impressive 25-1 fight record, with most wins coming via submissions or decision.
Makhachev’s ability to dictate the pace of a fight and dominate opponents on the ground has earned him a reputation as one of the most feared champions in the UFC lightweight rankings.
Arman Tsarukyan: The Underdog’s Path to Greatness
For Arman Tsarukyan, the loss in 2019 was the beginning of an incredible journey. Over the years, Tsarukyan has built a name for himself as one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC lightweight division. With an impressive fight record of 21-3, he has taken down elite contenders and showcased significant improvements in his striking, grappling, and fight IQ.
Highlights of Tsarukyan’s Career
- Climbing the Rankings: Wins over top fighters like Mateusz Gamrot and Charles Oliveira solidified his status as a title contender.
- Skill Evolution: Known for his ability to adapt, Tsarukyan has improved his boxing, kickboxing, and defensive grappling.
- Fan Favorite: His underdog status and exciting fight style have made him a favorite among American MMA fans.
This rematch is more than just another fight for Tsarukyan—it’s his shot at redemption and a chance to take the UFC lightweight title from one of the most dominant champions in MMA history.
Fight Preview: Who Has the Advantage?
The Islam vs Arman rematch brings two elite fighters with contrasting styles into the spotlight. While Makhachev relies on his grappling dominance, Tsarukyan’s versatility and striking improvements could pose a serious threat.
Tale of the Tape
| Attribute | Islam Makhachev | Arman Tsarukyan |
| Record | 25-1 | 21-3 |
| Style | Grappler/Striker | All-Rounder |
| Notable Wins | Charles Oliveira, Dustin Poirier | Charles Oliveira, Mateusz Gamrot |
| Takedown Accuracy | 65% | 56% |
| Significant Strikes | 58% Accuracy | 51% Accuracy |
Makhachev’s Strengths
- Elite grappling and takedown control.
- Ability to neutralize opponents’ strengths.
- Strong fight IQ with experience in five-round title fights.
Tsarukyan’s Strengths
- Superior striking versatility.
- Incredible cardio, allowing him to push the pace.
- Adaptability in transitioning between grappling and striking.
The Stakes at UFC 311 (Islam vs Arman)
The UFC 311 event, held at the iconic Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, isn’t merely another fight night; rather, it’s a historic occasion that could redefine the lightweight division. Moreover, the rematch between Makhachev and Tsarukyan carries significant implications for both fighters as well as the division.
What’s at Stake?
- For Islam Makhachev: A win would solidify his legacy as one of the greatest lightweight champions in UFC history.
- For Arman Tsarukyan: Victory would mark his arrival as the new king of the division, ending Makhachev’s reign.
This isn’t just a fight for the belt; it’s a battle for legacy and the future of the MMA lightweight division.
UFC 311: More Than Just the Main Event
While the Islam vs Arman rematch steals the spotlight, UFC 311 features an impressive fight card with top-tier matchups.
Full Fight (Islam vs Arman) Card
| Division | Matchup | Significance |
| Lightweight | Islam Makhachev vs Arman Tsarukyan | Title Fight |
| Middleweight | Top 5 Contenders | Title Eliminator |
| Featherweight | Rising Stars Matchup | Potential Future Contenders |
| Women’s Bantamweight | Title Fight | Women’s MMA Spotlight |
The PPV card is packed with must-watch fights, ensuring that fans will get their money’s worth.
How to Watch UFC 311 in the USA (Islam vs Arman)
For fans in the USA, catching the action is easier than ever. Here’s how you can watch the event live:
Streaming and TV Options
- Streaming: The fight will be available on ESPN+ as a PPV card. Subscriptions start at $79.99 for the event.
- Cable TV: Select cable providers will offer the event as a pay-per-view option.
Local Viewing Experiences
- Sports Bars: Popular chains like Buffalo Wild Wings and Hooters are expected to show the fight.
- Cinemas: Some movie theaters offer UFC PPV events for fans looking for a big-screen experience.
Whether at home or in a lively venue, UFC 311 promises an unforgettable night of excitement!
Expert Opinions on Islam vs Arman
MMA analysts and former fighters have shared their thoughts on this highly-anticipated rematch.
Expert Predictions
- Daniel Cormier: “Islam has the tools to dominate, but Arman has evolved. Don’t be surprised if this one goes the distance.”
- Joe Rogan: “Arman’s adaptability is impressive, but Islam’s fight IQ is on another level. It’s hard to bet against the champ.”
What the Fans Say
Social media is buzzing with predictions, debates, and support for both fighters. The hashtags #IslamVsArman and #UFC311 are trending, with fans from the USA expressing their excitement for what promises to be a clash of titans.
Final Thoughts: Why This Rematch (Islam vs Arman) Matters
The Islam vs Arman rematch at UFC 311 will shape the future of the UFC lightweight division. For Islam Makhachev, it’s a chance to cement his legacy. For Arman Tsarukyan, it’s an opportunity to prove that he belongs among the greats.
This rematch is a testament to the growth and evolution of both fighters. Whether you’re rooting for the dominant champion or the hungry challenger, this is a fight you cannot afford to miss. Mark your calendars for January 18, 2025, for a historic night of MMA in the UFC Octagon!
James Wesley is a passionate martial arts enthusiast and the voice behind Martial Aura. With a deep love for UFC and combat sports, he shares expert insights and in-depth analysis on everything from fight strategies to athlete profiles. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him training or watching the latest fights, always learning from the best in the ring.
