When UFC 311 did not go as expected, UFC President Dana White made a firm decision regarding Arman Tsarukyan. The Armenian fighter was unable to participate in the title fight against champion Islam Makhachev due to a back injury and failing to complete the official weigh-ins. Tsarukyan’s absence led to a replacement, Renato Moicano, who couldn’t create an exciting matchup. These failures left Dana White disappointed, and he declared that Tsarukyan would no longer have a guaranteed shot at the title.

 

 

Injury and Tsarukyan’s Future

The back injury could be a significant obstacle for Arman Tsarukyan, as revealed by Dana White. The UFC president admitted that this injury could have long-term effects on Tsarukyan’s fighting ability. While fans remain doubtful about Tsarukyan’s return, Dana White also confirmed that Tsarukyan must continue fighting for a chance at the title in the future. With a more reliable contender, UFC needs fighters who can participate in matches without concerns about injury.

Islam Makhachev: Who’s Next?

With Islam Makhachev nearly unscathed from his previous fight, fans are eager to know who will be his next opponent. Will the UFC organize a title fight between Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira, who is ranked just behind Tsarukyan? However, Islam’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, has provided conflicting information, causing confusion among fans.

A Surprising Plan for UFC

According to Abdelaziz, the UFC may have an entirely different plan for Islam Makhachev, which does not include Oliveira, Ilia Topuria, or Arman Tsarukyan. The names Abdelaziz mentions, such as Justin Gaethje and Beneil Dariush, are fighters who have never faced Islam before. This has created a major surprise in the MMA world, as these fighters, while well-known, cannot compare to the strength of Oliveira.

UFC Analysts Are Surprised by These Choices

UFC’s selection of opponents for Islam Makhachev continues to spark controversy. Justin Gaethje and Beneil Dariush have both lost to Charles Oliveira, and whether the UFC’s focus on these opponents is the right choice remains a big question. If Islam Makhachev continues to dominate in the lightweight division, will the UFC adjust its plans to challenge him with bigger fights, such as moving up to the welterweight or middleweight divisions?

Islam Makhachev Ready for New Challenges

Islam Makhachev has previously expressed his intent to move up to the welterweight division, where his teammate Belal Muhammad currently reigns. He is also willing to face reigning middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis, despite the significant size difference between the two weight classes. Makhachev will undoubtedly have plenty of opportunities in 2024, as the UFC plans for him to face highly challenging bouts, continuing to make history in his career.

UFC’s Strategic Shift for Makhachev

With UFC’s shift in focus towards new opponents, Islam Makhachev may be on the verge of a career-defining year. As he navigates unexpected challenges, including potential moves to higher weight classes, Makhachev’s future in the UFC is more uncertain yet exciting than ever. Fans eagerly await his next move.