UFC 311 payouts: Islam Makhachev vs Arman Tsarukyan salaries for lightweight title fight

Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan are set to receive substantial payouts and salaries for their championship fight at UFC 311.


UFC 311 payouts: Islam Makhachev vs Arman Tsarukyan salaries for lightweight title fight

Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan are set to receive significant payouts and salaries at UFC 311 (Image via Instagram/@ufc and @ufc_korea)

The Intuit Dome in Inglewood, LA, is preparing to host the inaugural UFC Pay-Per-View event of 2025! The fight card is filled with thrilling matchups that fans have been eagerly anticipating. With a lineup featuring Islam Makhachev, Arman Tsarukyan, and many more, the fighters are also set to earn impressive salaries and payouts, making this event (UFC 311) one for the history books!

The headliner clash features a highly anticipated rematch between the reigning UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, and Arman Tsarukyan. The Armenian fighter is looking for revenge after his previous loss to Makhachev. In contrast, Makhachev remains calm and composed, maintaining his trademark ‘cold’ demeanor. As a result, this matchup has generated significant excitement.

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The UFC lightweight champion is expressing doubt about Tsarukyan’s MMA skills. Makhachev confidently claims he is superior to the Armenian fighter in every aspect of the sport. However, Tsarukyan has demonstrated that he is competitive with anyone in the category. With the excitement and high stakes surrounding their matchup, it promises to be a profitable night for both fighters.

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Salary of Islam Makhachev for his UFC lightweight title defense against Arman Tsarukyan

The rematch clash will mark the UFC’s debut at the Intuit Dome, making it another significant venue for the promotion. As a result, UFC boss Dana White is determined to ensure the UFC 311 pay-per-view event is a success. Additionally, the UFC CEO, known for rewarding his fighters, plans to offer substantial payouts and salaries at UFC 311.

Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev in training ahead of their rematch
Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev in training ahead of their rematch (Image via Instagram/@arm_011 and @islam_makhachev)

Typically, champions receive a larger share of the purses. Islam Makhachev has consistently dominated his opponents since becoming the champion. Notably, after defeating Dustin Poirier and successfully defending his title at UFC 302, Makhachev earned over $1 million.

Additionally, as reported by Marca, the Dagestani fighter is guaranteed a base salary of $750,000. However, his total earnings could rise to $3.5 million, depending on the number of pay-per-view purchases generated at UFC 311.

Salary of lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311

Interestingly, like Islam Makhachev, Arman Tsarukyan is also a formidable competitor in the UFC lightweight division. Aside from his losses to Makhachev and Mateusz Gamrot, Tsarukyan has been on an impressive winning streak in the promotion. Most recently, he further elevated his status in the UFC by defeating former champion Charles Oliveira.

Islam Makhachev to defend his title at UFC 311 against Arman Tsarukyan
Islam Makhachev to defend his title at UFC 311 against Arman Tsarukyan (via X)

Tsarukyan’s guaranteed purse for the fight is $500,000, similar to Makhachev’s. However, if he wins, his total earnings could increase to a maximum of $1.5 million, based on pay-per-view revenue shares and performance bonuses. Interestingly, the Armenian fighter was fined for a fan altercation, which resulted in a deduction from his payout.

Having served a suspension for that incident, the Armenian fighter is likely to avoid engaging in any similar activities in the future. However, Tsarukyan is keen to prove his skills and silence any doubts after his victory over the Dagestani champion. Ultimately, all of that remains to be seen, as both fighters are scheduled to clash on January 18th at the Intuit Dome.

Related: Arman Tsarukyan Net Worth, UFC contract, Endorsements and House