Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan Shocking Betting Odds Reveal Who’s Really the Favorite
In 2019, when Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev first faced off at UFC Fight Night 149, the betting odds heavily favored Makhachev. At the time, Makhachev, trained under Khabib Nurmagomedov, was considered the stronger, more experienced fighter. The odds for Makhachev stood at around -500, indicating he was the clear favorite. To put it into perspective, a bettor would need to wager $500 to win $100 on Makhachev’s victory. In contrast, Tsarukyan was listed as a +375 underdog, meaning a $100 bet on him would have returned $375 if he managed to pull off the upset.
Despite Makhachev’s dominant performance in the fight, where he won by unanimous decision, Tsarukyan impressed many with his skills and poise, especially considering that he was a relative newcomer to the UFC. This performance led to a strong sense of anticipation for his future in the sport, while Makhachev’s victory only cemented his position as one of the top contenders in the lightweight division.
The Rise of Both Fighters: Makhachev and Tsarukyan in 2025
Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape has dramatically changed. Islam Makhachev is now the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, having captured the title with a dominant win over Charles Oliveira in 2022. His reputation has soared, and many now consider him one of the best fighters in the world, with his superior grappling and well-rounded skill set. On the other hand, Tsarukyan has developed into one of the most exciting young talents in the division, with impressive victories that have kept him in the spotlight. He is now seen as a serious challenger to Makhachev’s title.
The Mystery of the 2025 Betting Odds
However, despite both fighters having grown in stature, the odds for their potential rematch in 2025 remain shrouded in mystery. There are no confirmed betting odds yet, and many are eagerly awaiting their release as the fight draws nearer. The excitement surrounding the bout is palpable, with both fighters having evolved since their first encounter. While Makhachev remains the favorite, Tsarukyan’s rise in the ranks and the unpredictable nature of their previous fight suggest that the odds could be far closer than in 2019.
A Comparison of the 2019 and 2025 Betting Dynamics
Comparing the betting odds from 2019 to what we expect in 2025, the dynamics of the fight have certainly shifted. In 2019, Makhachev’s overwhelming dominance in terms of experience and reputation made him a clear favorite. Now, however, both fighters have proven themselves on the big stage, and Tsarukyan’s potential to upset Makhachev is more widely acknowledged.
The Anticipation of the Rematch: Who Will Be the Favorite in 2025?
The mystery surrounding the 2025 odds adds an intriguing layer to the anticipation of this rematch. As the fight approaches, we can expect the odds to fluctuate, with Tsarukyan’s chances becoming more realistically recognized as he continues to improve and Makhachev holds onto his status as champion. Whether Makhachev will maintain his position as the favorite or if Tsarukyan will become the new favorite remains to be seen, but one thing is for certain: this highly anticipated fight is set to be one of the biggest battles in the lightweight division, with the betting world keenly watching the unfolding odds.
