UFC 311 is set to have a completely different main event than originally anticipated after lightweight top contender Arman Tsarukyan was forced to withdraw due to injury. The event, scheduled to be held on Saturday, January 20, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, will now see Islam Makhachev defending his championship belt against Renato Moicano.
Dana White, UFC CEO, broke the news on Friday morning during the official weigh-ins, confirming reports from Red Corner MMA about Tsarukyan's back injury, which he sustained late Thursday night during his weight cut. This unfortunate turn of events marks a significant setback for Tsarukyan, who has been on a remarkable run, winning nine of his last ten fights, including recent victories over former champion Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush.
Renato Moicano has stepped up on short notice to fill the challenging role of Tsarukyan's replacement, having originally been set to face Dariush on the main card. With his quick adaptation to face the reigning champ, the Brazilian fighter checked in at 155 pounds, making him eligible for the title fight on such brief notice. Moicano (20-5-1 MMA, 12-5 UFC) has been enjoying success lately, winning four consecutive bouts.
Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC), who is currently riding high on a 14-fight winning streak and regarded by many as the best pound-for-pound fighter, expressed his mindset about the change. On his Instagram, Makhachev stated, “What does this title represent? It means you are the best in the world and if you are the best in the world, it doesn’t matter who’s going to be standing across from you. What do I say? No? NEVER. Let’s do this!”
For Makhachev, this title defense is particularly significant as he aims to cement his legacy within the sport. If he wins on Saturday, he would break the current tie for the most consecutive lightweight title defenses—sitting at three alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov, Benson Henderson, and BJ Penn—setting the record at four. The stakes could not be higher for both competitors.
Despite the disruption to fight plans, the UFC has quickly made modifications, promoting another bout on the card to fill the void left by the main event change. This fast reaction demonstrates the organization's agility within the unpredictable world of mixed martial arts, where injuries can shift the narrative almost overnight.
The excitement surrounding UFC 311 remains palpable among fans as they anticipate the new headlining battle. While the prospects of scaling back Tsarukyan's ambitions for immediate title redemption are unfortunate, Moicano’s opportunity to compete for the title presents its own intriguing narrative. This aligns with the unpredictability and drama often associated with the UFC, where every fight can dramatically alter career trajectories.
Saturday night promises to offer high stakes and compelling storylines as Islam Makhachev takes the octagon, defending his lightweight title against the resilient Renato Moicano. The fans will surely be treated to what could be not just another title defense for Makhachev, but also the emergence of Moicano as a formidable contender aiming to grasp his first championship belt. With adrenaline running high, fans can expect nothing less than intense action and passion at UFC 311.