This Saturday, January 18, UFC 311 promises to be a night full of excitement, with two matchups that could redefine the future of the bantamweight and lightweight divisions. In the headlining fight, fans will witness the long-awaited rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan, who first met in 2019 in a bout that left its mark. In addition, Merab Dvalishvili will face Umar Nurmagomedov in a battle that goes beyond the title: pride is at stake.
Day: Saturday, January 18.
Time: 9:00 p.m. (Local time)
Arena: Intuit Dome.
Location: Inglewood, California.
Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan: The rematch
The first time they met, Makhachev emerged victorious by unanimous decision, but since then, both fighters have experienced impressive growth. Makhachev, who was crowned UFC lightweight champion, will defend his belt for the fourth time, looking to reassert his dominance in the division. For his part, Tsarukyan, with an impressive record of 9 wins and only one loss since that bout, arrives more mature and prepared than ever, with his sights set on dethroning the champion.
Both fighters have evolved significantly. Makhachev has solidified his control in grappling and striking, while Tsarukyan has shown improvements in his wrestling and striking, which has made him a legitimate title contender. With a minimal difference in weight (155 lbs for Makhachev and 156 lbs for Tsarukyan), height could be a determining factor: Makhachev is slightly taller (5'10") but Tsarukyan has a longer reach (72.5" vs. 70.5").
After everything that has happened since their first fight, this rematch is loaded with tension and expectations, and promises to be one of the most impactful fights of the season.
Dvalishvili vs. Nurmagomedov: Duel for title and respect
In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili will take on Umar Nurmagomedov in a fight that goes beyond a title fight. Nurmagomedov comes in on the heels of an impressive win over Cory Sandhagen, which earned him a shot at the belt without having to go through the top 10, something that has generated some resentment from his opponent, Dvalishvili. For 'The Machine', this showdown is not just about the championship, but about proving that his hard work, which has earned him 10 consecutive victories, deserves to be recognized.
Initially Dvalishvili did not want to accept the challenge because he felt there was special treatment for Nurmagomedov, but tired of what he himself has described as disrespect he decided to make the evening happen to prove his point in the ring.
The size of the opponents is quite similar. Umar Nurmagomedov is 5'8″ and has a reach of 69″, while Dvalishvili, shorter in height (5'6″), has a reach of 68″. However, Dvalishvili's real advantage lies in his incredible cardio, known for his ability to maintain constant pressure throughout the fight. His stamina will be key against an opponent as skilled as Nurmagomedov, who also possesses excellent grappling control and precise striking.
This matchup promises to be a clash of styles, where Dvalishvili's physicality and tireless energy could be decisive in neutralizing the attack of a technically impeccable Nurmagomedov.
Stellar Billboard
- Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan
- Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov
- Jiří Procházka vs. Jamahal Hill
- Beneil Dariush vs. Renato Moicano
- Kevin Holland vs. Reinier de Ridder
Forecasts
The showdown between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan is crucial to the future of the lightweight division. Will Makhachev extend his reign as champion? Or will Tsarukyan strike a blow for authority, beginning a new era?
This Saturday the favorite continues to be Makhachev with odds of -400 against +292 for Tsarukyan. The "Over" stands at 4.5 with odds of -180 and the "Under" at +143.
In the second stellar fight the favorite is Nurmagomedov with odds of -325 to Dvalishvili's +244.
Another interesting clash will be between the Czech Jiri Prichazka with odds of -105 against the American Jamahal Hill with odds of -125.
Remember that lines are dynamic and constantly changing.
Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan will be a pivotal matchup for the future of lightweight. Will Islam's reign be extended? Will the Arman era begin? Don't miss this clash in the main event of UFC 311, this Saturday, January 18.
