Islam Makhachev Set to Defend Lightweight Title Against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311
The highly anticipated rematch headlines UFC 311, with Makhachev aiming for his fourth title defense and Tsarukyan seeking redemption after their 2019 bout.
- UFC 311 takes place on January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, marking the UFC's first event at the new venue.
- Islam Makhachev, riding a 14-fight win streak, defends his lightweight title for the fourth time against Arman Tsarukyan, the division's top-ranked contender.
- The main event is a rematch of their 2019 fight, which Makhachev won via unanimous decision, with both fighters significantly improving since their first meeting.
- The co-main event features bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili defending his title against undefeated contender Umar Nurmagomedov.
- Makhachev has expressed interest in moving to welterweight for a second title after clearing out the lightweight division, but remains focused on Tsarukyan for now.