Official news: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 and Dvalishvili vs. Nurmagomedov headline UFC 311 card

UFC 311 is shaping up to be a thrilling event with two high-stakes title fights headlining the card. Islam Makhachev will defend his lightweight belt against Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch, while Merab Dvalishvili will put his bantamweight title on the line against Umar Nurmagomedov. Both of these high-profile matchups are set to take place on January 18 at the new Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, ensuring an exciting start to 2024 for UFC fans.

Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan 2 for the Lightweight Crown

The rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan has been eagerly anticipated since their 2019 Fight of the Night performance. In that fight, Makhachev emerged victorious, but Tsarukyan earned respect for his competitive showing, especially considering he took the fight on short notice.

Nearly six years later, both fighters have made significant strides. Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, has defended his title against Alexander Volkanovski and Dustin Poirier, establishing himself as one of the most dominant forces in the UFC. On the other hand, Arman Tsarukyan has been on a four-fight win streak with a 9-1 record since his loss to Makhachev. Now, the stakes are higher than ever, with Makhachev looking to defend his belt for a fourth straight time, while Tsarukyan aims to claim his first UFC title in what is sure to be a high-octane rematch.

Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov for Bantamweight Title

In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili will defend his bantamweight title against Umar Nurmagomedov. This fight came together unexpectedly after a series of back-and-forth exchanges between the two fighters. Originally, Dvalishvili wanted to return in March, but that timeline clashed with Ramadan, forcing a delay.

However, UFC President Dana White revealed that Dvalishvili recently expressed his frustration with Umar’s disrespect and wanted to make the fight happen sooner. White explained that when they reached out to Nurmagomedov, who was in Dagestan, he immediately agreed to the fight, stating, “Hell yes, anywhere, anytime.”

Dvalishvili enters the fight on an 11-fight win streak, most recently dethroning Sean O’Malley to claim the bantamweight title. Nurmagomedov remains undefeated at 18-0 and has six wins in the UFC. This matchup promises to be a clash of unrelenting wills, with both fighters eager to prove they are the top bantamweight contender in the world.

More Fights to Be Announced

With both Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 and Dvalishvili vs. Nurmagomedov headlining UFC 311, this event is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting pay-per-views of the year. These high-profile title fights set the stage for a night filled with unpredictable action.

Expect more fights to be announced in the coming weeks, but these two championship bouts alone have generated immense buzz. Whether it’s the continuation of Makhachev’s dominance or the emergence of a new lightweight champion in Tsarukyan or the dramatic showdown between Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov at bantamweight, UFC 311 promises to deliver a night fans will not forget.

UFC 311 Will Be a Night of Unmissable Action

UFC 311 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, with Islam Makhachev defending his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch and Merab Dvalishvili facing Umar Nurmagomedov for the bantamweight crown. These two thrilling title fights are just the beginning, as UFC 311 is sure to deliver explosive action and set the stage for a new era in both divisions. As the event approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting what could be one of the most exciting cards of 2024.