The wait is over – Islam Makhachev’s next fight has been announced! The pound-for-pound king of the UFC is set to make his return to the Octagon in January. But who will he be facing in the main event of UFC 311?
Who Will Face Islam Makhachev Next?
After an eight-month hiatus, Islam Makhachev returned to the ring at UFC 302, engaging in a fierce battle with former interim champion Dustin Poirier. Makhachev emerged victorious with a submission win in the fifth round.
Now, following a few months of recuperation, Makhachev is gearing up to defend his title once again in January. His opponent? None other than Arman Tsarukyan, a familiar face.
How to Watch Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan
- Date: January 18
- Location: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, California
- Event: Main Event of UFC 311
- Broadcast: Exclusively on ESPN+
Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan 2: A Preview
This fight promises to be a showcase of two elite lightweight fighters. It’s a rare opportunity to see top-tier competitors clash for gold in their prime, with the winner solidifying their legacy in the UFC.
Their First Encounter: In his UFC career, Makhachev has only been taken down twice, one of those times by Tsarukyan. However, Makhachev’s own takedowns played a crucial role in his decision victory five years ago. Both fighters have improved significantly since then, so their upcoming fight may offer a different dynamic.
Evolving Skills: Both Makhachev and Tsarukyan started their UFC journeys with impressive grappling skills. Over the years, they’ve honed their striking abilities, making them well-rounded and formidable opponents.
The Stakes: This fight is critical for the lightweight division. Makhachev is the favorite, but Tsarukyan’s rapid improvement makes him a serious contender. Makhachev will need to be at his best to retain his title.
Why is Islam Makhachev So Popular?
Islam Makhachev was seen as the successor to UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. Throughout his career, Makhachev has built an impressive resume, arguably surpassing his iconic friend’s achievements.
Not only is he one of the top fighters at 155 pounds, but Makhachev is also ranked among the top five pound-for-pound fighters globally.
- Record: 26-1 (5 KOs, 12 submissions)
- Height: 5-foot-10
- Weight Class: Lightweight (max 156 pounds for non-title fights)
- Notable Loss: A technical knockout to Adriano Martins at UFC 192 in 2015
- Achievements: UFC champion and Russian Sambo national champion
Islam Makhachev’s Net Worth
A fighter’s success isn’t just measured by wins but also by their financial achievements. Thanks to significant sponsorship deals, Islam Makhachev’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million.
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