Arman Tsarukyan pulls out of UFC 311

The UFC 311 main event has suffered a significant setback as Arman Tsarukyan has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled title rematch against Islam Makhachev. According to reports from Russian outlet Red Corner MMA, Tsarukyan sustained a back injury just days before the event, set to take place tomorrow at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The UFC is now working urgently to secure a replacement for Makhachev, with Brazilian contender Renato Moicano reportedly in discussions as a potential substitute.

Tsarukyan’s injury disrupts much-anticipated rematch

Tsarukyan earned his rematch against Islam Makhachev following a controversial split-decision victory over former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 last April. The Armenian fighter, who is currently ranked number one in the lightweight division, was seen as a significant challenge to Makhachev’s dominance. Earlier today, Makhachev successfully made weight for the bout, while Tsarukyan had yet to step on the scales before his withdrawal was announced.

This matchup was highly anticipated, especially given their first meeting in 2019, where Makhachev secured a unanimous decision victory. Fans and analysts had speculated about how much Tsarukyan had improved since their initial clash, making this rematch a pivotal moment in both fighters’ careers.

Renato Moicano emerges as possible replacement

Renato Moicano, originally scheduled to face Beneil Dariush on the UFC 311 main card, is now being considered to step into the main event. The Brazilian lightweight has been on an impressive run, most recently securing a dominant TKO victory against French contender Benoit Saint Denis at UFC Paris last September. However, concerns remain about the limited preparation time Moicano would have for a five-round title fight against a dominant champion like Makhachev.

The UFC is also reportedly evaluating other potential replacements, but Moicano’s availability and recent form make him a strong candidate. Fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation on whether the event’s headliner will proceed as a title fight or if other changes are necessary.

What happens to UFC 311 now?

UFC 311 is scheduled to take place tomorrow, January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Despite recent wildfires in the area, UFC officials have confirmed that the event will proceed as planned. The main question now is whether Islam Makhachev will defend his title, and if so, against whom.

Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the UFC works tirelessly to address the situation and finalize plans for tomorrow’s card.

Source: MMAnytt.se

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