Arman Tsarukyan

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 MakhachevUmar NurmagomedovJamahal HillRenato Moicano+2

Colby Covington has announced he is pulling out of his booked cruiserweight crossover championship match against Belal Muhammad at RAF 12 on Aug. 22 in Cleveland. Covington, who won the RAF cruiserweight title by defeating Arman Tsarukyan at RAF 11, cited Muhammad's conduct at the post-fight press conference — where Muhammad threw a kick at him before being separated by security — as the reason for his decision. Invoking his status as a shareholder in the promotion, Covington said he made an "executive decision" to move away from the matchup, calling Muhammad unprofessional and not a needle-mover.

Ben AskrenBelal MuhammadColby CovingtonArman 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

Arman Tsarukyan faces Colby Covington and Ben Askren makes his comeback at RAF 11. The card is now live, with stream information and updates available.

Ben AskrenBelal MuhammadClay GuidaColby Covington+2

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

Conor McGregor has acknowledged that five years away from competition left him overeager when he returned, causing him to "rush out the gate." McGregor said he does not regret opening with a flying kick but believes he executed it incorrectly.

Jon JonesMax HollowayAnderson SilvaIlia Topuria+6