Islam Makhachev is preparing for a rematch against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, aiming for a decisive victory rather than leaving it to the judges, as he acknowledges Tsarukyan’s improvements since their first encounter but remains confident in his ability to finish the fight.
Islam Makhachev isn’t leaving it to the judges this time. Nope, not happening.
The UFC lightweight champ is gearing up for his fourth title defense against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311. Mark your calendars: Jan. 18 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. It’s a rematch of their April 2019 showdown, where Makhachev took the win by unanimous decision.
That fight was Tsarukyan’s big UFC debut—talk about diving in headfirst! He took the opportunity on short notice but still managed to be competitive throughout. Fast forward, and he’s won nine out of his last ten fights, earning him another shot at Makhachev.
In a chat with Daniel Cormier, his buddy and teammate, Makhachev shared insights on how Tsarukyan has evolved since their first encounter. Oh, and he cleared up some misconceptions too.
“Of course, improved,” Makhachev said on ESPN, “he has more experience, but same skills.” He pointed out that Tsarukyan struggles against opponents with strong wrestling skills like Mateusz Gamrot and himself.
Gamrot is actually the only other fighter who’s beaten Tsarukyan. Their battle was one of 2022’s best—a five-round thriller that Gamrot narrowly won on points.
Despite that loss, Tsarukyan bounced back strong, defeating top contenders Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush in a four-fight win streak. Some even say he’s been Makhachev’s toughest opponent yet, though Makhachev disagrees. He cites his epic clash with Alexander Volkanovski as a tougher challenge.
“[Tsarukyan] was one of the hardest fights,” Makhachev admitted, “but not the toughest.” The bout with Volkanovski? Insane heart rate levels—over 200! Maybe he underestimated Tsarukyan back then; after all, it was short notice and nobody knew him. But now? Now he’s ready to settle old scores.
“When I fought Volkanovski,” Makhachev continued, “I told everyone I’d finish the questions—and I did.” This time around, he’s looking for a decisive finish to silence any doubts.
Makhachev has been studying Tsarukyan closely as he climbed the ranks to a title shot. Especially moments from Tsarukyan’s fight with Oliveira where “Do Bronx” had him in danger. If similar openings appear, Makhachev plans to capitalize on them.
“The first fight, I didn’t know his background,” Makhachev confessed. “He defended my wrestling well—that’s why it was tough.” But now? Now he knows what to expect and believes he has an edge over Tsarukyan this time around.
Charles Oliveira almost finished Tsarukyan multiple times with guillotines and triangle chokes. So if those chances arise again? You bet Makhachev will be ready to pounce!