Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan are set to face off in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 311, following their initial 2019 bout where Makhachev won by decision, with both fighters having significantly advanced in their careers since then.
Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan are set to clash again in the UFC 311 main event this Saturday. Curious about how this epic rematch came to be? Check out MMA Fighting’s UFC 311 Timeline video above.
Flashback to 2019: Makhachev was already a rising star in the lightweight division. Meanwhile, Tsarukyan, just 22, was stepping into the UFC octagon for the first time. That night in St. Petersburg, Russia, Tsarukyan gave Makhachev a run for his money. Yet, it was Makhachev who edged out a competitive decision victory.
Fast forward to now—both have flourished. Makhachev clinched the UFC lightweight title and defended it thrice. Tsarukyan? He’s been on fire too, boasting a 9-1 record since that initial loss. A rematch was written in the stars, and now they’re ready to settle scores in Los Angeles.
So, what’s gonna happen? Can Makhachev hold onto his crown? Or will Tsarukyan snatch revenge—and the belt—this Saturday?