"This is my night," Arman ahead of UFC 311 clash against Islam Makhachev
UFC 311 press conference sees Makhachev, Tsarukyan, and more deliver intense rivalries and bold predictions..
Sports Desk |
January 17, 2025
Both fighters first met in 2019, with Makhachev coming out on top with a unanimous decision.
The pre-fight press conference for UFC 311 in Los Angeles delivered an electric atmosphere as fighters from the stacked card fielded questions, exchanged barbs, and showcased their unique personalities.
With the lightweight title rematch between champion Islam Makhachev and challenger Arman Tsarukyan headlining the event, anticipation for Saturday's fights reached a fever pitch.
Tsarukyan, fueled by the opportunity to avenge his sole UFC loss, was determined. “This is my night,” he declared, drawing loud applause from a crowd heavily populated by Armenian fans. “I’m here to take the belt and make history.”
Makhachev addressed the challenge of fighting in a city with a strong Armenian presence. “When the cage closes, the crowd can’t help,” he remarked confidently.
Dvalishvili and Nurmagomedov Heated over Nationality
The bantamweight clash between Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov took a personal turn as both fighters exchanged heated words. Nurmagomedov questioned Dvalishvili’s loyalty to Georgia, suggesting he should return to his homeland to support it.
Dvalishvili countered with pride, emphasizing his gratitude to the US for helping him achieve his UFC dreams while representing Georgia.
Despite the tension, Dvalishvili remained focused on his performance. “I’m here to fight,” he stated. “Breaking records is great, but my goal is to dominate and show my skills on Saturday.”
Jiri Prochazka’s Gesture of Solidarity
Former light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka surprised everyone by debuting a shaved head, explaining the decision as a tribute to a young cancer patient he invited to the event.
“This is my way of showing solidarity and spreading positive energy,” Prochazka said. He also announced a donation of $50,000 to a cancer foundation, which fellow fighter Jamahal Hill pledged to match.
Dana White Confident in UFC 311’s Success
UFC President Dana White expressed excitement about the event’s location in Los Angeles, home to the largest Armenian community outside of Armenia. “This is an LA card through and through,” White said. He didn’t rule out a future UFC event in Armenia, drawing cheers from the audience.
As the press conference concluded, the fighters stood face-to-face, raising the stakes for what promises to be an unforgettable night of fights. With personal stakes, national pride, and championship belts on the line, UFC 311 is set to deliver drama both inside and outside the Octagon.
UFC 311 emanates from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood California, with a start time on Saturday, Jan 18 / 7:00 PM PST.
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