The UFC 311 main event is shaping up to be an unmissable clash as lightweight champion Islam Makhachev defends his title against Arman Tsarukyan. A win for Makhachev would mark a historic moment, placing him at the top of the lightweight division with the most title fight victories in UFC history.
Makhachev, currently tied with his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov, B.J. Penn, and Benson Henderson, is on the verge of cementing his legacy. His opponent, Arman Tsarukyan, isn’t one to back down. Their first encounter in 2019 saw Makhachev win by decision, but Tsarukyan has been on a tear ever since, winning nine of his last ten fights. His recent knockouts of Beneil Dariush and Charles Oliveira earned him another shot at the belt.
Max Holloway’s Insight on the Rematch
Former featherweight champion Max Holloway shared his thoughts on the rematch during a YouTube segment, expressing admiration for both fighters. “Islam vs. Arman, this is going to be a fun fight,” said Holloway. “It’s a rematch. I’ve got nothing but respect for the two dudes. Great fighters. Smart fighters.”
Holloway pointed out Makhachev’s impressive growth since their first bout.
“All I’m going to say is, it’s hard to bet against Islam. It’s hard to bet against the champ, especially in his form as of late. He’s not only been relying on his grappling; he’s been showing us that he’s been working hard on his striking.”
The lightweight champion is on weight 👏@MAKHACHEVMMA comes in at 154.5lbs!
[ #UFC311 | Live TOMORROW on @ESPNPlus PPV | 10pmET ] pic.twitter.com/tIll9zoaEV
— UFC (@ufc) January 17, 2025
Tsarukyan, however, remains a formidable challenger. Holloway acknowledged his ability to finish the fight if the opportunity arises.
“Arman can finish Islam. Islam can finish Arman. Does this fight get a finish? I don’t know. I think it’s going to have great striking exchanges and really, really, really good grappling exchanges.”
Makhachev’s grappling and striking balance, coupled with his undeniable strength, give him an edge in Holloway’s eyes. “You’ve got to respect his wrestling. You’ve got to respect the ground, so with his striking getting better, he’s hanging in there with you in striking. You’re nervous about being taken down because he’s so strong and his grappling is so great that it’s tough.”
When pressed to make a prediction, Holloway leaned toward the champion.
“If I had to bet money, it’s hard to go against the champ. I think Islam takes this one. I think Islam, if he doesn’t win all five rounds, he gets four decisively… And I think he gets a decision here.”
As fight night approaches, fans are eager to see whether Tsarukyan can turn the tables or if Makhachev will continue his dominant reign. One thing is certain, this rematch promises fireworks.
