Could a shredded, superhero-like physique be enough to outsmart Islam Makhachev’s grappling? Well, we may never know, as the highly anticipated 155lbs title fight between Arman Tsarukyan and Makhachev at UFC 311 has now been called off. UFC boss Dana White recently revealed that ‘Ahalkalakets’ suffered a back injury during weight cutting, leaving him unable to compete. The Armenian has lost out on the biggest opportunity of his young career. Naturally, he was eager to face the 155lbs god-King, having invested his “money, health, and everything else” into the rematch.

However, this setback dashed Tsarukyan’s hopes of becoming the 155-pound division kingpin. In a recent development, Tsarukyan issued an apology to his fans and the UFC, writing on Instagram: “I regret to inform everyone that the news of me having to pull out of UFC 311 due to a back injury is true. This was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make in my fighting career. I would like to thank the UFC for understanding, and I look forward to competing for my first UFC Championship in the future. Thank you all for your support.”

His opportunity has now passed on to fellow ATT teammate, ranked #10 lightweight contender Renato Moicano. The Brazilian will now face Makhachev for the title, instead of his previous opponent Beneil Dariush. MMA journalist Ariel Helwani provided further insight into the situation in a recent 3-minute video on X, breaking down the timeline and key details surrounding the dramatic change in UFC 311’s headline event.

First, Ariel Helwani shared, “Arman Tsarukyan injured his back whilst cutting the final pounds last night.” Later, he added, “It got worse overnight, and Arman withdrew around 7 am this morning.” Helwani went on to point out that Moicano was aware of the Armenian’s injury and likely knew he would be getting the title shot if he made championship weight. Helwani also revealed, “Arman has NOT been promised an immediate title shot upon his return yet.”

With his injury, Arman Tsarukyan‘s aspirations of becoming a champion have been put on hold. As the saying goes, “someone’s loss is another’s gain.” In this case, the Brazilian has stepped in to face Makhachev, which has the potential to create one of the biggest upsets in the division. This turn of events has prompted the Dagestani juggernaut to send a message to Dana White.

Islam Makhachev sends a message to Dana White after Arman Tsarukyan’s pullout

For those wondering about the risks of taking a short-notice fight, look no further than Tony Ferguson’s experience at UFC 249. Ferguson accepted a last-minute matchup with Justin Gaethje after COVID complications prevented Khabib Nurmagomedov from traveling to America. Ferguson, who had spent months preparing for Khabib’s grappling, was caught off guard by Gaethje’s striking, which contributed to his downfall and ultimately an eight-fight losing streak.

In contrast, Islam Makhachev remains unfazed by Tsarukyan’s withdrawal from UFC 311. Confident in his skills, the 155lbs kingpin told Dana White, “Brother, I am the champion. I fight anyone, I don’t care.” However, Makhachev didn’t stop there. He took the chance to criticize the UFC boss for not acknowledging his #1 pound-for-pound spot, instead favoring Jon Jones. Through social media, the Dagestani prospect sent a pointed message to White, writing, “@danawhite, now you understand what P4P means.”

What’s your take on the UFC and Dana White’s stance? Can Moicano pull off one of the biggest upsets in the sport? And will Arman Tsarukyan receive an immediate title shot once he recovers and returns to the Octagon? If yes or no, drop your reasons below.