Defending the Title for the Fourth Time – Can Break Records at UFC 311

Islam Makhachev is preparing to defend his lightweight title for the fourth consecutive time at UFC 311, scheduled for January 20, 2025. The event will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and serve as the year’s first major UFC gala. Makhachev captured the lightweight belt by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in 2022 and has since defended it three times successfully. His latest victory was a dominant performance against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, solidifying his position as the division’s undisputed king. His opponent, Arman Tsarukyan, enters the fight with momentum after an impressive win over Oliveira at UFC 300.

Records Do Not Interest Makhachev

Ahead of UFC 311, Makhachev was interviewed by Kevin Iole, who pointed out that a victory would extend his win streak to 15 consecutive fights. This accomplishment would place him alongside Kamaru Usman, tied for the second-longest win streak in UFC history. Only Anderson Silva, with 16 consecutive wins, stands above them. Despite being on the verge of such historic milestones, Makhachev stated that personal records hold no significance for him.

– Honestly, I didn’t know that. I don’t follow records or who has defended titles the most. For me, defending my belt is what matters most, said Makhachev.

Opportunity to Make UFC Lightweight History

While personal records may not motivate Makhachev, UFC 311 offers a unique opportunity for him to make history. A successful title defense against Tsarukyan would make him the first lightweight champion in UFC history to defend the title four times consecutively. Their previous encounter took place in 2019, where Makhachev secured a unanimous decision victory in a hard-fought bout. Since then, Tsarukyan has evolved into a top contender with well-rounded skills, but Makhachev remains confident in his superiority.

– Tsarukyan is good everywhere; that’s why he’s number one now, said Makhachev.
– But my skills are better, he confidently added.

A Historic Main Event Awaits

The lightweight title fight at UFC 311 promises to be a pivotal moment in MMA history, regardless of its outcome. For Makhachev, the fight represents an opportunity to solidify his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest champions. For Tsarukyan, it is a chance to upset the reigning champion and stake his claim to lightweight supremacy. Fans around the world eagerly anticipate this clash of elite fighters, which could define the future of the division.

Source: MMAnytt.se

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