Just one day before the UFC’s first pay-per-view event of 2025, the organization was dealt an unexpected blow – Arman Tsarukyan dropped out of UFC 311.
Tsarukyan and Makhachev on Thursday they faced off at a press conference ahead of their second head-to-head, which was supposed to take place this Saturday at Los Angeles. The bout was a highly anticipated rematch of their 2019 fight at UFC Fight Night in Moscow, where Makhachev celebrated with the referee’s decision.
“What does this title represent?” It means you’re the best in the world and if you’re the best in the world, it doesn’t matter who’s going to be standing across from you. What do I say? But? UNBELIEF. Let’s do this!” pic.twitter.com/Nyj05z1mGs
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) January 17, 2025
However, during the official weigh-in, a report emerged Red Corner MMA media in which it is stated that Tsarukyan withdrew from combat just over 24 hours before his first attack on lightweight championship title.
The reasons for the withdrawal have not yet been officially confirmed, but the news immediately caused a storm among fans and analysts. Dana White appeared on the UFC’s Morning Weigh-In Show as of this writing, and it is said to be an issue with Tsarukyan’s back and neck.
Renato “Money” Moicano will take his place, a Beneil Dariush in the end, he remains without a match against the aforementioned Brazilian.
The new lightweight title challenger Renato Moicano has a message for the champion 😤 #UFC311
(via @ufc) pic.twitter.com/6UNk5lqC04
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) January 17, 2025
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