No.1-ranked UFC lightweight Arman Tsarukyan will rematch Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 early next year. The two first met in 2019 when Makhachev won a razor-close three-round fight against Tsarukyan. Now, the two will battle for the belt as the Dagestani champion will put his UFC lightweight title on the line against the surging Armenian fighter.
Despite losing the close fight, Arman Tsarukyan is considered the toughest challenge in Makhachev’s near-10-year UFC run so far. He’s gone 9-1 since losing to the champion and is currently on a four-fight winning streak.
Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Tsarukyan was asked if he’s open to an immediate trilogy bout if he wins the rematch at UFC 311. To this, the 22-3 Armenian fighter said:
👀Arman Tsarukyan doesn’t think Islam Makhachev will get an immediate rematch if Arman beats Islam at UFC 311:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 10, 2024
“It’s going to be Ramadan and I want to fight as soon as possible…May would be great because I got to make money”
🎥@arielhelwani 🔹 pic.twitter.com/DCft4GYKK1
“I don’t think so. It’ll be Ramadan to fight as soon as possible. In May would be great. Because I got to make money. After the belt, I’m going to make money.”