Photo | MMA Mania

Islam Makhachev

  • “I’m Here to Prove My Dominance Once More”

Islam Makhachev was all business at the UFC 311 media day ahead of his title defense against Arman Tsarukyan.

Makhachev acknowledged Tsarukyan’s claims of having a new technique up his sleeve, responding with, “He can claim what he wants, but on fight night, it’s my hand that will be raised.”

He emphasized his busy training camp, focusing on every aspect of his game to ensure he remains the champion. Islam comes into LA with the entire Nurmagomedov clan at his side.

Photo | MMA Junkie

Arman Tsarukyan

  • Teasing a “Never-Before-Seen” Technique

Arman Tsarukyan took the stage with some mystery, teasing the media about his preparation for the rematch against Makhachev. “I’ve developed something special for this fight, something he’s never seen,” Tsarukyan hinted, keeping the details close to his chest.

Tsarukyan claims that he will unleash a never before seen technique that is entirely new to the UFC. He also promised fans will 100% know when the technique happens.

Along with joking about his father’s wealth, Tsarukyan spoke highly of Makhachev and winning the title. It is clear he is motivated.

Photo | MMA Junkie

Merab Dvalishvili

  • Still Feels Disrespected

Merab Dvalishvili doubled-down on his feelings of disrespect from opponent Umar Nurmagomedov. After reiterating his confusion of Umar getting this title shot, Merab again says other opponents were more deserving of the opportunity.

Merab explains why he felt to disrespected by Umar during the first UFC 311 press conference. While saying this fight won’t be more personal than any other fight, it is still clear Merab isn’t happy with Umar’s confidence heading into the fight.

Photo | UFC

Umar Nurmagomedov

  • Responds to Merab’s Claims

After Merab Dvalishvili continued to claim Umar Nurmagomedov has been disrespectful towards the champ, Umar expressed confusion towards the matter. Umar repeatedly said “he’s not my father”, insinuating that Merab has no place to question his words.

Umar said the confidence he has coming into this fight gives him the right to express his want to defeat Merab. Umar genuinely seemed confused as to why Merab was so bothered by his words.

Umar adds that he is more than motivated to become the champion and is eager to bring home another UFC belt to the Nurmagomedov collection.

Photo | MMA Junkie

Jamahal Hill:

  • “It’s About Redemption”

Jamahal Hill spoke candidly about his last fight with Jiri Prochazka, admitting to learning valuable lessons from that encounter. “I’ve refined my approach; it’s not just about power anymore,” Hill said, emphasizing a more strategic fight plan.

He’s aiming for redemption, not just a win, proving that he still belongs amongst the top.

Hill also reflected on his loss to Alex Pereira. He still believes the circumstances that led to him being finished were fishy, but nonetheless he remains focused on Prochazka.

Photo | MMA Junkie

Jiri Prochazka

  • “When You Are Looking at Other Opponent, It Will Cost You a Lot”

Jiri Prochazka believes it is a mistake for Jamahal Hill to harp on his past loss to Pereira. Jiri says in order to succeed, a fighter must be 100% focused on the task at hand.

It is clear that Jiri is dialed in for this fight. He was a man of few words, claiming “this is the most important fight” in his career so far.

Avoiding questions regarding a future Pereira trilogy fight, it is clear the only thing on Jiri’s mind is making it past Jamahal Hill on Saturday night.

Photo | UFC

Renato Moicano & Beneil Dariush

  • Light-Hearted Jabs

The light-hearted banter between Renato Moicano & Beneil Dariush was refreshing. Only 15-days apart in age, a reporter asked Moicano about his thoughts on Dariush being “old”.

Moicano responded by laughing and saying, “Don’t call him old, because I’m older than him. But come Saturday night, I’m going to beat the sh*t out of that old man”.

Dariush was asked about Moicano’s words and, in a much more PG response, said, “I’m going to beat the poop out of that old guy”.

Despite the fun back-and-forth between the two, there is no doubt both fighters will leave it all in the Octagon at UFC 311.

Want to know more about each event? Visit homeoffight.com or any of our social media accounts for more articles, fighter interviews, and plenty of more coverage. Enjoy the fights, let us know how you’ll be watching!

By Published On: January 15th, 2025Categories: Latest UFC News: Results, Rumors & More at Home Of Fight