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A UFC lightweight shared his insights on the main event of UFC 311, where Islam Makhachev will defend his 155-pound title for the fourth time against Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch. The event is set for Jan.18 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, United States.
In his recent appearance on the JAXXON podcast, Chase Hooper was asked to share his prediction for the main event. Hooper emphasized Makhachev's wrestling skills and placed his bet on him, saying
"I'm taking Islam. I mean, it was kind of close in the first fight, but it's one of those things where people always say you get 10% better after you get the belt. And I mean, how are you going to bet against, like, put cash down against a Dagestani wrestler? I think that's the smart money."
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Check out Chase Hooper’s comments below (28:11):
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In their first showdown at UFC Fight Night 149 in 2019, ‘Ahalkalakets’ gave a tough challenge to the reigning lightweight champion despite taking the fight on short notice. However, he lost the bout by unanimous decision.
Islam Makhachev vows to finish Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311
The MMA community and analysts consider Arman Tsarukyan the toughest opponent for Islam Makhachev, as both fighters possess a strong wrestling and striking arsenal.
Speaking with Daniel Cormier on ESPN MMA, Makhachev was asked if he considered Tsarukyan the top opponent he has faced. The 155-pound champion gave an unsure answer and vowed to finish Tsarukyan just as he finished Alexander Volkanovski. Makhachev said:
“Maybe I underestimated him because it was short notice and nobody knows him, and he don’t have name. I never watched his fights. He did well in that fight, but I’d like to finish all the questions, you know?”
“With Volkanovski (rematch) I told everyone I had to close and finish the questions and get the finish. That’s why in the second fight. I’m going to be looking for the finish and make everyone shut up," he added.
Check out Islam Makhachev’s comments below (3:47):
