UFC 311 has witnessed a dramatic shakeup just days before its highly anticipated showdown. Arman Tsarukyan has been forced to withdraw from his lightweight title bout against Islam Makhachev due to a back injury.
The announcement came during Friday morning’s official weigh-ins. It was later confirmed by UFC President Dana White via Instagram. This news has left fans buzzing. Tsarukyan had shown no apparent signs of injury during media day on Wednesday or the press conference on Thursday. However, details surrounding the timing and cause of the injury remain undisclosed.
In an unexpected twist, Renato Moicano has stepped in to replace Tsarukyan. He will now face Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) for the lightweight title. Moicano (20-5-1 MMA, 12-5 UFC) was originally scheduled to fight Beneil Dariush. Now, he finds himself with a golden opportunity. The Brazilian fighter reacted to the announcement on social media, expressing both excitement and determination.
Despite being ranked No. 10 in the UFC lightweight division, Moicano enters the fight riding a four-fight winning streak. This includes a decisive victory over Benoit Saint Denis last September. Meanwhile, Dariush, ranked No. 9, will no longer compete at UFC 311. This development has paved the way for Moicano’s unexpected title shot.
The pay-per-view event remains stacked with thrilling matchups. Fans can look forward to a bantamweight title clash between champion Merab Dvalishvili and rising star Umar Nurmagomedov. Additionally, former champions Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka will square off in a much-anticipated battle. Other notable bouts include Jailton Almeida vs. Serghei Spivac and Kevin Holland vs. Reinier de Ridder.
UFC 311 promises electrifying action from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The event kicks off live at 7 PM PST on Saturday, January 18. Don’t miss the drama and high-stakes battles set to unfold!
