So, fight fans, hold onto your seats because UFC CEO Dana White just dropped some huge news! The main event for UFC 311 is locked in, and it’s a rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan for the 155lbs gold. But wait, here’s the kicker! Makhachev has already predicted the outcome. Sounds bold right? This isn’t just any fight, this is the UFC’s top P4P and lightweight champion vs. the #1 contender, and it’s bound to be fireworks. But does the Dagestani know something we don’t, or is he just that confident?

In an Instagram story, the division kingpin posted the event with the cryptic message, “Round 2.” Now, if you know Makhachev, you know he doesn’t speak lightly, so what does this prediction mean? Could it be that he’s simply sending a message, reminding everyone why he’s the most dominant force in the MMA landscape?

Let’s rewind a little to 2019 when these two first met. Tsarukyan made his UFC debut, and it was anything but ordinary. Despite being a newcomer, he gave Makhachev a serious challenge at UFC Fight Night 149, with the bout earning Fight of the Night honors. Though Makhachev took the win by unanimous decision, it wasn’t an easy victory. But come January, the stakes for the rematch are even higher as the future of the 155lbs division rides in the balance. Who will have the bragging right? Let’s try to find out!

What will be the outcome of the high-stakes Makhachev-Tsarukyan rematch?

Islam Makhachev has been nothing short of dominant! Let’s talk about his journey for a second. He has been a wrecking ball on his route to world domination. His 14-fight winning streak is impressive, but it’s not just the quantity, it’s the quality of those wins. A submission over Dustin Poirier? A knockout win over Alexander Volkanovski? The Dagestani has shown that he’s not just defending his title, he’s redefining what it means to be a champion. With Tsarukyan coming in hot, this could be his ultimate test. But can Makhachev keep his grip on the title?

If Makhachev can back up his “Round 2” prediction, it will solidify his legacy with the most title defenses in 155lbs history at 4. But Tsarukyan? He’s not coming in to play, it’s all or nothing for him and hence this bout might be the toughest yet for both fighters. The Armenian is coming into this rematch on a hot streak, with a four-fight win streak and a stunning victory over Charles Oliveria. For the unversed, this is Tsarukyan’s first shot at UFC gold, and he seems to be ready to make the most of it.

It is plain as day that Tsarukyan is a different fighter than he was in 2019, with eight first-round finishes and nine knockouts, Makhachev might be facing a new skillset with when he graces the Octagon next. Thus, this fight is his chance to prove that he belongs at the top, and with a win over Makhachev could see a new king crowned. It’s a true clash of titans, Makhachev’s dominance vs. Tsarukyan’s hunger for glory.

With White’s official confirmation of the rematch as the main event for UFC 311, the anticipation is off the charts. What do you think? Can Makhachev defend his title and back up his prediction? Or is it just the good old mind game that we see in this sport? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!