The stage looks set for the long-awaited bout between UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan. Earlier this year, the future of the lightweight title has been in limbo. Islam Makhachev, during his third title defense against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, sustained a hand ligament tear that temporarily halted his career.

Meanwhile, following his dominant unanimous decision victory over Charles Oliveira at the historic UFC 300, Arman Tsarukyan found himself embroiled in a confrontation with a fan in Las Vegas. This led to the NSAC suspending Tsarukyan for 9 months, expiring in January next year. This timeline perfectly aligns with Makhachev’s return, as confirmed by his coach and friend Khabib Nurmagomedov while speaking to Ushatayka.

Now, to make up for the remaining shortcomings, it seems more confirmed by renowned CBS News journalist Reuben Cater on Twitter, who confirmed the upcoming lightweight bout in January 2025. Cater tweeted, “BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Islam Makhachev vs Arman Tsarukyan 2 is officially signed for #UFC311,” further claiming the UFC officials will confirm the leak in seven days.

Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan had already faced off once, five years ago, during Tsarukyan’s debut fight. In that match, Tsarukyan’s inexperience couldn’t stand up to someone like Makhachev, who was already making waves in the lightweight division with a record of 5-1 at the time. However, fast forward to today, and Tsarukyan has significantly improved.

Now 11-2 (last 13 bouts) in the promotion, he’s currently on an impressive 4-fight win streak. The stakes for this rematch are already incredibly high. Although the fight has yet to be officially announced, fellow fighters are already weighing in with their predictions.

What’s Belal Muhammad’s opinion on the Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan fight?

Since his UFC debut, following his rise in regional promotions, Makhachev has consistently demonstrated his resilience, taking on any challenge the matchmakers present. Initially referred to as the next Khabib Nurmagomedov by fans, Islam Makhachev has since carved his own path, stepping out of Khabib’s shadow to showcase his unique skill set.

Makhachkala native has established himself as a more technical fighter, with a perfect blend of striking and grappling, becoming a force to be reckoned with in the promotion, much like Khabib once was. Welterweight champion Belal Muhammad recently echoed this sentiment during an interview with Helen Yee.

Muhammad said, “I think Islam has shown that he gets better every single fight, and he’s been dominating so many fights. He showed how much of a complete mixed martial artist he is, especially in that fight with Dustin, where he outstruck Dustin. People said he would have to wrestle, and then he got the finish late in the fight.”

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Now, all eyes are on Dana White and the UFC as fans eagerly await the announcement of the highly anticipated lightweight rematch. This is the fight every MMA enthusiast has been waiting for. Who do you think will come out on top–Islam Makhachev or Arman Tsarukyan? Share your thoughts below.