Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan might be former foes, but they're not bitter rivals. The next UFC lightweight title fight is a rematch six years in the making, with current champion Makhachev defeating a 22-year-old Tsarukyan in his promotional debut back in 2019.

Lightweight title contender Arman Tsarukyan believes tenfold improved striking could be the key to his win against Islam at UFC 311.

Tsarukyan’s reach is two inches longer, and he claims he’s prepared a “special trick” for the fight. However, Makhachev is UFC’s best pound-for-pound fighter for a reason, so we expect him to prevail and successfully defend his belt. However, Tsarukyan could have value at 3/1 odds.

Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) notched his third title defense when he submitted Poirier in Round 5 at UFC 302 in June. Makhachev, who’s dominated most of his opposition throughout his career, was surprised with how competitive “The Diamond” made things.

Everything you need to know ahead of UFC 311 as the UFC's undisputed lightweight and bantamweight titles are on the line in Inglewood, California.

Joe Solecki claims grappling extraordinaire Islam Makhachev staying on the feet against Arman would not be the biggest mistake.

Islam Makhachev gave Arman Tsarukyan some words of encouragement after their first UFC fight. Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) welcomed Tsarukyan (22-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC) to the UFC in April 2019, defeating the then-22-year-old by unanimous decision.

Arman Tsarukyan puts it all on the line, investing everything for his showdown with Islam Makhachev at UFC 311.

The first UFC pay-per-view card of 2025, UFC 311, appears to be fully booked. We look at the opening betting odds for the Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 fight card.