LOS ANGELES — The UFC is set to make its debut at the newly opened, cutting-edge sports and entertainment venue Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, on January 18, 2025. UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2, will kick off the organization’s 2025 Pay-Per-View calendar with an exciting night featuring two championship bouts headlining the card. The UFC’s first visit to this state-of-the-art arena promises to showcase the Intuit Dome as a premier destination for global events, pairing world-class MMA action with an unparalleled fan experience.
The main event sees reigning lightweight and pound-for-pound champion Islam Makhachev face off against No. 1 ranked contender Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch. Makhachev, widely regarded as one of the most dominant fighters in all of mixed martial arts, enters the bout riding a record-setting 14-fight win streak, having recently secured decisive victories over the likes of Dustin Poirier and Alexander Volkanovski. In their first bout in 2019, Makhachev defeated a then-debuting Tsarukyan in a grueling fight that showcased the challenger’s immense potential. Since that loss, Tsarukyan has evolved into one of the division’s most well-rounded athletes, boasting highlight wins over top-ranking lightweights such as Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush. Now, with his eyes on the title, Tsarukyan looks to upset the reigning champion and secure the Lightweight belt.
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In the co-main event, bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili faces a foreboding challenge in the undefeated phenom Umar Nurmagomedov. Dvalishvili, known for his relentless pace and record-breaking takedown attempts, has forged a legacy of dominance with victories over some of the weight class’ toughest competitors, including former champions Sean O’Malley and Petr Yan. Nurmagomedov’s dominant grappling has drawn comparisons to his cousin, former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, as well as his close friend and training partner, Islam Makhachev. The clash between Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov promises to deliver a compelling showdown that may redefine the bantamweight division.
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With two thrilling title fights set against the backdrop of the Intuit Dome, UFC 311 is poised to set a new benchmark for combat sports events. The arena’s cutting-edge design and immersive fan experience promises to amplify the high-stakes action, ensuring a historic night for fighters and fans alike. Tickets go on sale December 6 for an event fight fans will not want to miss.