Islam Makhachev

UFC 311’s main event changed after Arman Tsarukyan withdrew, with Islam Makhachev now defending the lightweight title against Renato Moicano on short notice. The update matters because it keeps the belt on the line while replacing a highly anticipated rematch with a very different stylistic matchup. ESPN’s event preview still frames the card around Makhachev and the bantamweight title fight, underscoring how important the championship stakes remain despite the change. The replacement reshapes the lightweight division, with Moicano suddenly getting a career-defining title shot and Makhachev facing a new opponent with less preparation time.

Islam MakhachevRenato MoicanoArman Tsarukyan

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and top contender Arman Tsarukyan were among the high-profile attendees at the World Cup final. Mike Tyson was also present at the match alongside the two UFC fighters. The appearance underscores the growing global visibility of MMA athletes at major international sporting events.

Islam MakhachevArman Tsarukyan

Islam Makhachev has weighed in on the upcoming middleweight bout between Dricus Du Plessis and Kamaru Usman, predicting Du Plessis will come out on top. Makhachev noted that Usman's strategy of moving up in weight makes sense — a win over Du Plessis would position Usman as the next title contender given his prior win over Strickland. However, Makhachev believes Usman's knee problems will prevent him from sustained wrestling, giving Du Plessis the edge.

Dricus Du PlessisSean StricklandIslam MakhachevMichael Bisping+4

Dana White has named Arman Tsarukyan among the top five biggest stars in the UFC right now. White also included Jon Jones, Sean O'Malley, Merab Dvalishvili, and Islam Makhachev in the grouping, alongside Paddy Pimblett, who White praised for his massive social media growth and crowd appeal. White credited media personality Nina Drama with helping elevate Tsarukyan, Dvalishvili, and Sean Strickland, calling the fighters smart for maintaining that relationship.

Jon JonesSean StricklandIslam MakhachevPaddy Pimblett+3

Ben Askren has opened up about his remarkable comeback to sport, recalling that one year ago he was unable to stand under his own power or perform basic functions while hospitalized. Askren revealed he has a wrestling match scheduled, marking a return to competition after a serious health ordeal.

Ben AskrenIslam MakhachevBelal MuhammadThiago Moises+1

Islam Makhachev's coach has disclosed that a teammate capable of mimicking almost any fighter's style is assisting Ian Machado Garry's preparation. The revelation highlights the cross-camp collaboration taking place ahead of Garry's upcoming bout.

Islam MakhachevIan Machado Garry