The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) increasingly revolves around fierce rivalries and titanic matches. Among the most compelling narratives in this space is the trajectory of UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. He is set to face Arman Tsarukyan again on January 18 at UFC 311, an event generating immense excitement. This matchup is particularly noteworthy as it serves as a rematch; Makhachev previously defeated Tsarukyan in April 2019 during his opponent’s UFC debut. The stakes have risen exponentially since that first encounter, and the anticipation surrounding this clash reflects the evolution of both fighters.
Makhachev, boasting an impressive record of 26 wins and only one loss, has emerged as a dominant force in the UFC lightweight division. Meanwhile, Tsarukyan, with a commendable record of 22 wins and 3 losses, continues to demonstrate that he is no mere stepping stone. As Makhachev seeks to defend his title, many are eager to see if Tsarukyan can harness the experience gained since their last bout to pull off an upset. The fight will unfold at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and broadcast on ESPN+.
At the forefront of Makhachev’s career is his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, who has made headlines for his audacious claims regarding Makhachev’s abilities and position in the MMA hierarchy. Abdelaziz is not shy about stating that he feels Makhachev should be recognized as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the sport, a title currently hotly contested within the MMA community. He boldly asserted that Makhachev possesses the skills to take on and defeat opponents across a wide weight range—from 155 to 185 pounds—rendering him a nightmare for virtually anyone in the combat sports arena.
In a recent interview, Abdelaziz commented on Tsarukyan’s potential, acknowledging him as “an absolute beast” and acknowledging his skill set. However, the manager also expressed a firm belief that this is not Tsarukyan’s time to ascend the throne. Instead, he is privileged to witness the rise of Makhachev—a fighter whose relentless commitment to improvement distinguishes him. Abdelaziz’s confidence sharply contrasts the reality of Tsarukyan’s progression, illustrating the volatile nature of MMA fandom and management.
What sets Makhachev apart in a competitive landscape? Abdelaziz articulated that Makhachev combines skill and strategy in a manner seldom seen in contemporary fighters. He claims that the lightweight champion can compete effectively in multiple weight classes, positioning him as a unique and potent threat. His insistence that Makhachev can even take on the current UFC light heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira, underscores an underlying narrative: Makhachev’s grappling prowess gives him an upper hand over striker-focused competitors.
Abdelaziz believes that should Makhachev secure a bout with Pereira, the matchup would not even be a close fight. He suggests that Makhachev’s grappling would quickly overwhelm Pereira’s striking capabilities, leading him to victories through submissions. The suggestion that he can dispatch a hard-hitting athlete like Pereira demonstrates Abdelaziz’s unyielding faith in Makhachev’s skills and capabilities.
The discourse around Makhachev extends beyond his fighting capabilities; it encompasses the ongoing debate over UFC rankings. Abdelaziz openly challenged the UFC’s current pound-for-pound list, specifically contesting UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones’s placement. While Jones has long been celebrated in the sport’s narrative, Abdelaziz contends that Makhachev’s recent performances—a remarkable seven finishes in eight fights—underscore a greater level of dominance and achievement.
This commentary reveals the disparity between the two fighters’ current competitive landscapes. While Jones has fought and won against formidable opponents, Abdelaziz argues that Makhachev’s competition exhibits a superior caliber. He cites recent notable victories and finishes as evidence that Makhachev is contending with tougher challenges, thus making a stronger claim for being the rightful champion in these rankings.
The discourse around their fights is critical for the continued evolution of MMA rankings and accolades. It aids in fostering an environment where fighters are constantly pushed to evolve and showcase their skills against increasingly challenging opponents.
As UFC 311 approaches, the fighters stand on the brink of pivotal shifts in their respective careers. For Islam Makhachev, this rematch is a test—a chance to validate his ascent within the sport and defend his title against a challenger who has grown in knowledge and strategy since their last meeting. For Arman Tsarukyan, it is an opportunity to solidify his place in the lightweight division and perhaps rewrite the narrative of his professional journey.
As they prepare for this highly-anticipated clash, the martial arts community watches closely. Abdelaziz’s confidence in Makhachev paints a promising future for the champion, but history has shown that anything can happen inside the octagon. Each athlete will bring their story and strategy to the arena, leaving spectators eagerly anticipating the outcome of UFC 311. In a sport defined by pride, strategy, and physical prowess, Makhachev’s journey may just be beginning—but his manager firmly believes that it leads nowhere but upward.