Fri Jan 10 07:30:00 UTC 2025: ## UFC Lightweight Champion Makhachev to Face Tsarukyan in Rematch at UFC 311
**Inglewood, CA** – UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev will defend his title against Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 311 on January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The fight marks a second consecutive rematch for Makhachev, who previously defeated Tsarukyan in 2019.
Makhachev, currently ranked #1 pound-for-pound, sees this fight as a chance to definitively silence any remaining doubters about his dominance. While acknowledging Tsarukyan’s improved skills since their first encounter – including recent victories over Beneil Dariush and Charles Oliveira – Makhachev expressed confidence, stating he knows Tsarukyan’s game inside and out. He aims for a finish, unlike Oliveira’s near-misses in his fight with Tsarukyan.
Tsarukyan, currently riding a nine-win streak in his last 10 fights, earned his title shot through consistent victories, making him a formidable challenger. Despite his preference for fresh matchups, Makhachev welcomes the rematch, believing his knowledge of Tsarukyan’s fighting style will provide a strategic advantage.
The main card of UFC 311 begins at 10 pm ET/7 pm PT, following preliminary bouts starting at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT. Makhachev hinted at a potential move to welterweight should he successfully defend his title, seeking a second championship belt.
First Piper 