If there was ever a ‘god-king’ equivalent of an MMA fighter, then they have a lot of qualities Islam Makhachev exhibits. The Dagestani’s reputation as one of the most dominant forces in the UFC is well-established. As the reigning 155lbs champion, Makhachev’s aura of invincibility continues to grow with each successful title defense.

Many experts and fighters alike consider the Dagestani phenom to be without any significant weaknesses in his game. However, not everyone agrees with this assessment. Lightweight contender and Arman Tsarukyan’s training partner, Grant Dawson, holds a different perspective, suggesting there may be more to uncover in Makhachev’s seemingly flawless arsenal.

Grant Dawson highlights the chink in Islam Makhachev’s armor

Islam Makhachev is set to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, a highly anticipated showdown in the stacked lightweight division. For Makhachev, this fight is a chance to cement his legacy with the most title defenses at 155lbs with four. While Tsarukyan seeks redemption and the chance to prove he belongs at the top.

Makhachev’s blend of elite wrestling, suffocating top control, and ever-improving striking have placed him at the top of the summit. On the other side, Tsarukyan comes into the fight as a surging contender with momentum on his side. Since his hard-fought unanimous decision loss to Makhachev in 2019, he has developed into a well-rounded and dangerous threat.

Fans and fighters alike are eagerly anticipating this matchup. Lightweight contender Grant Dawson and Dustin Poirier’s (and Tsarukyan’s as well) teammate at ATT shared his thoughts on Makhachev’s potential vulnerabilities during the Inside Fighting show, “I think the biggest thing is not letting him move you backward—which is way easier said than done. The biggest flaw I think Islam Makhachev has is I think his weight cut is too big. He cuts too much weight. I don’t think he cuts weight the proper way and you know he’s still amazing. But I think that if you get in his face and you start attacking the body.”

Since the time the fight was announced, fans and experts have started making predictions for the clash. Some feel Makhachev may find it tough against the 28-year-old, while others feel a bit different. Amid the excitement, Jon Jones’ coach has come forward to give his take on 2025’s first PPV main event.

Brandon Gibson weighs in on UFC 311’s main event

With the much-anticipated rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan approaching, Jon Jones’ coach, Brandon Gibson has shared his thoughts, backing Makhachev as the favorite. In an interview with James Lynch, Gibson highlighted Makhachev’s quick development and championship experience, pointing to these factors as key advantages that could tip the fight in his favor. He said, “I think Islam is rightfully the favorite.”

He further added, “He’s racking up that championship experience. You know like about with Poirier, he showed his championship character, like being able to really dig down deep in those later rounds despite the cut despite being wobbled. I think Islam is really growing as a champion. I think we won’t see such a close rematch between those two I think Islam shows domination and showcases his grappling once again.”

As the fight draws near, fans eagerly anticipate whether Makhachev’s reign will continue or if Tsarukyan can shake up the lightweight division with a career-defining upset. Either way, UFC 311 promises fireworks in the Octagon. Who do you think will win between the two? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.