The fight fans have been waiting for is finally here—UFC 311 is ready to deliver some serious action. UFC 311 kicks off 2025 with a pay-per-view that promises unreal action. In the main event, Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan are back for another showdown. The first fight had everything—heart-pounding action, jaw-dropping moments, and now they’re back to do it all over again.
Let’s take it back to 2019, when these two squared off for the first time. It was an exciting battle, but Makhachev walked away with the win via a unanimous decision. Tsarukyan made his UFC debut in that fight, and although he lost, he proved he could hang with the best of them. Fast forward to 2025—Makhachev has become the UFC lightweight champion and successfully defended his title three times, while Tsarukyan is on a tear, winning 4 straight and earning himself the #1 spot in the lightweight rankings.
This rematch is set to be a completely different beast, with both fighters hungry for victory.
Date and Location
Circle January 18, 2025 on your calendars because this is one fight you do not want to miss. The action will go down at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The pay-per-view event starts at 10:00 p.m. ET, so clear your schedule! And hold onto your seat because there’s also two title fights on the card. That’s double the excitement!
UFC 311: More Than Just a Rematch
UFC 311 has a super exciting fight card. There are two title fights and other epic matchups like Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov. A thrilling rematch will headline the show, and with two title fights on the card, this night is sure to go down in history as one of the best UFC pay-per-views in recent memory. Don’t miss a minute!
Main Event Spotlight: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2
- Flashback to 2019: The First Encounter
Let’s rewind to 2019, when Arman Tsarukyan made his UFC debut on short notice against the seasoned Islam Makhachev. Tsarukyan, despite the pressure, delivered an impressive performance, but Makhachev ended up winning by unanimous decision. It was a fight that had fans on the edge of their seats and earned the “Fight of the Night” honors. Tsarukyan showed he had serious potential, while Makhachev solidified himself as one of the toughest fighters in the lightweight division.
- Makhachev’s Meteoric Rise: The Ultimate Fighter
Islam Makhachev is a beast, plain and simple. After that initial win, he didn’t just stop; he kept crushing it. With a jaw-dropping record of 26-1, Makhachev has stacked 9 straight wins, including 5 submissions and 2 knockouts. This guy isn’t just here to win—he’s here to dominate. October 2022 was his moment, when he became the UFC lightweight champion after submitting Charles Oliveira in a fight that left everyone in awe. Since then, Makhachev has not only defended his belt three times, but he’s also owned the Octagon, toppling champions like Volkanovski and Poirier. Makhachev is a champion in every sense of the word.
- Tsarukyan’s Rise: From Underestimated to Underdog
Now, don’t sleep on Arman Tsarukyan (22-3), because he’s been on an epic journey since their first encounter. After losing to Makhachev, Tsarukyan went on a 9-1 run, with four straight wins after a tough loss to Gamrot. His victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024? That was the cherry on top. This guy is no longer just a potential threat; he’s a real contender. Tsarukyan’s improved striking and grappling skills make him a serious contender. He’s coming into this fight with fire in his belly. The question is, will that fire be enough to take down the champion?
- Betting Odds: Who’s the Favorite?
According to BetOnline, Islam Makhachev is the favorite at -340, while Arman Tsarukyan is the underdog at +270. Makhachev’s dominance in the lightweight division is clear, but Tsarukyan’s impressive rise makes this rematch a fight you don’t want to miss.
If you want to place bets, be sure to check out the best betting sites for UFC.
Full Fight Card and Key Details
With big names and massive showdowns, this event is not one to miss. Check out the full card and all the juicy details you need to know.
Main Card Highlights:
- Islam Makhachev (c) vs. Arman Tsarukyan – The lightweight title is on the line, and this rematch is going to be FIRE. Can Makhachev keep his crown, or will Tsarukyan snatch it away?
- Merab Dvalishvili (c) vs. Umar Nurmagomedov – A bantamweight showdown for the ages! Two hungry fighters going for the title—who will come out on top?
- Jiri Prochazka vs. Jamahal Hill – A battle of former light heavyweight champions. Get ready for a clash of powerhouses!
- Renato Moicano vs. Beneil Dariush – These lightweights are bringing the heat with a fight you won’t want to miss.
- Kevin Holland vs. Reiner de Ridder – Expect a middleweight match full of power, speed, and jaw-dropping moments.
Preliminary Card Highlights:
- Bogdan Guskov vs. Johnny Walker – Light heavyweights ready to throw down—expect big punches!
- Jailton Almeida vs. Sergehi Spivac – These heavyweights are ready to make a big statement
- Payton Talbott vs. Raoni Barcelos – Bantamweights getting their moment to shine.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: January 18, 2025, main card starts at 10 p.m. ET.
- Location: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, California.
- Broadcast Info: Catch all the action exclusively on ESPN+ PPV.
