Watch UFC 314: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 — Main Card Free.

What's at Stake

The undisputed Lightweight Championship is on the line as Islam Makhachev looks to further cement his legacy as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in UFC history. For Arman Tsarukyan, this represents the culmination of a multi-year climb back to the top, offering him the chance to avenge his debut loss and seize the throne in the world's most competitive division.

Head-to-Head

These two elite grapplers first met in 2019, where Makhachev secured a unanimous decision victory in a highly technical "Fight of the Night" encounter. Since that meeting, both fighters have remained nearly perfect, with Makhachev capturing the title and defending it against the sport's biggest names, while Tsarukyan has dismantled top contenders to earn his status as the mandatory challenger. This rematch serves as a definitive test to see how much both men have evolved since their initial three-round battle.

Key Players to Watch

• Islam Makhachev — The reigning champion known for his suffocating sambo wrestling and vastly improved counter-striking.
• Arman Tsarukyan — An explosive athlete with elite wrestling defense and the knockout power to change the fight in an instant.
• Dustin Poirier — A potential future challenger watching from cageside as the divisional hierarchy is decided.

Prediction

Expect a high-level chess match where the wrestling exchanges are largely neutralized, forcing much of the fight to take place on the feet. While Tsarukyan will likely provide the champion's toughest test to date, Makhachev’s composure and superior clinch work should see him retain the title via a close unanimous decision or a late-round submission.