Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan are set to face off in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 311, scheduled for January 18, 2025, at the newly opened Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. This rematch is particularly exciting, as the lightweight title will be on the line, and the stakes could not be higher for both fighters. The two previously fought in April 2023, with Makhachev emerging victorious by unanimous decision in what was a thrilling contest. Now, Tsarukyan has earned the opportunity to challenge Makhachev once again after a string of impressive victories.
Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, is riding a dominant 13-fight win streak, making him one of the most feared fighters in the UFC today. The Russian fighter, trained by UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. With notable wins over top contenders such as Dustin Poirier, Alexander Volkanovski, and Charles Oliveira, Makhachev has proven himself to be a well-rounded fighter with elite grappling skills and powerful striking. Having already successfully defended his title against Poirier and Volkanovski, Makhachev is looking to defend it for the third time in this upcoming rematch. As the current champion, Makhachev enters this bout as a slight favorite, with odds around -125, reflecting his dominance in the division and his streak of victories. UFC fans will be monitoring these odds leading up to the fight and likely placing wagers in-person or online. When betting online, punters can choose between betting at traditional virtual sportsbooks or crypto sportsbooks. Increasingly, sportsbooks that accept crypto are becoming popular as they combine the thrill of wagering with the security and privacy of crypto, making them a popular option.
The odds highlight how close the matchup is expected to be, as both fighters possess exceptional skills and a strong desire to win the title. While Makhachev’s experience as a champion and his dominant performances in the past make him the favorite, Tsarukyan’s recent form and aggressive fighting style could give him the edge in what is expected to be a closely contested battle.
On the other hand, Tsarukyan has emerged as one of the most promising challengers in the lightweight division. The 28-year-old Armenian fighter has been on a tear since his loss to Makhachev, collecting a string of impressive victories that have earned him this second chance at a title shot. Tsarukyan’s knockout of Beneil Dariush in just 64 seconds in December 2023 and a split decision win over former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira in April 2024 have cemented his status as the No. 2 contender in the division. Tsarukyan is known for his relentless pace, striking precision, and ability to finish fights, making him a dangerous threat to Makhachev. With odds of +100, Tsarukyan enters the rematch as the underdog, though his rise in the division has proven that he is more than capable of pulling off an upset.
Ahead of this highly anticipated rematch, Tsarukyan has made it clear that he is focused on securing a definitive victory. Speaking to MMA Junkie in October, Tsarukyan stated, “I try to think it’s going to be easy for me, and I don’t want to think it’s going to be a decision. I want to finish him.”
