The UFC is not holding back. The first PPV of 2025 is already a statement of intent in the division (with the permission of the infinite Jon Jones) that sells and generates the most, the lightweight division (155 pounds). UFC 311 in Los Angeles will see Islam Makhachev (26-1), the number one pound-for-pound fighter, take on Arman Tsarukyan (22-3) for the belt in a battle of superclasses, styles and the aim of dethroning the company’s monarch after victories over Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski (twice) and Dustin Poirier
Tsarukyan is another exponent of the new generation. His physique is imposing, it seems incredible that he cuts down to 70.3 kilos, and he comes with a devastating streak after knocking out Beneil Dariush and winning, in a close battle, against Charles Oliveira. He has the weapons, especially the wrestling, to challenge Makhachev. Although the striking is where there may be some doubt. “I’ll knock him out,” he says without any doubt. It would be perfect revenge, because the Russian beat the Armenian when the two were young prospects in the UFC.
When you come from a rich family, you don’t rush into fighting and you take your time.
Arman Tsarukyan
The Armenian also not only consists of fighting skills. He also hides a different personal story. He is rich. He is not a fighter who came out of nowhere, quite the opposite. His father, Nairi, is a construction magnate and he has always lived surrounded by luxury. “When you come from a rich family you don’t rush into fighting and you take your time,” he told the Pound4Pound podcast. “You do what you want and just focus on when it’s your turn to fight.”
That may frame him in a different personality. And his intentions if he beats Makhachev only confirm it. “When I win, I will have already completed everything in the sport. It will only be business and when I am champion, I will only think about fights with a lot of money,” added the Armenian. Although the battle will be tough.
It is very difficult to see Islam [Makhachev] defeated, he has many resources right now
Robert Whittaker
With an absolutely unleashed Makhachev, eager to return and beat a rival he already knocked down in their first battle. “There is a difference in skills. It’s very hard to see Islam [Makhachev] defeated, he has a lot of resources right now,” says Robert Whittaker, another UFC legend, about the fight.