Tsarukyan and Oliveira Rematch Headlines UFC 331 in Los Angeles

Arman Tsarukyan will headline UFC 331 against former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira on September 19, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, according to multiple sports reports. The matchup marks a rematch between the two fighters, with Tsarukyan winning their first encounter at UFC 300 via split decision in a closely contested three-round bout.

The Rematch Setup

The initial contest between Tsarukyan and Oliveira generated significant debate within the fighting community. Though Tsarukyan emerged victorious in April 2024, the split decision raised questions about the closeness of the scoring. That first fight also came with complications when Tsarukyan faced suspension and a $25,000 fine for a physical altercation with a spectator during his ring walk.

Now, Tsarukyan has an opportunity to settle the rivalry more definitively. The Armenian contender currently holds the number two ranking in the lightweight division and last competed in the main event of UFC Qatar, where he defeated Dan Hooker in two rounds. Beyond his UFC appearances, Tsarukyan has remained active competing for Real American Freestyle, posting a 7-1 record in that promotion before suffering his first loss to Colby Covington at RAF 11.

Oliveira's Path Forward

Oliveira brings significant experience and accomplishment to the rematch. The 37-year-old Brazilian currently holds the BMF title after defeating Max Holloway at UFC 326 via unanimous decision. His record of 37-11 includes his reputation as one of the lightweight division's most dangerous submission artists. Despite a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, Oliveira has since won consecutive fights and will be seeking to reverse the result from their earlier encounter.

Title Implications and Ambitions

The lightweight division remains unsettled with Justin Gaethje's next move still undetermined. This dynamic makes the Tsarukyan-Oliveira rematch carry significant title implications. Tsarukyan has expressed ambitious intentions, stating he aims to compete for two belts before year's end—the BMF title rematch against Oliveira followed by a potential undisputed lightweight title shot against Gaethje if he prevails.

Los Angeles holds special significance for Tsarukyan, as the city hosts a large Armenian population that could provide substantial home-crowd support at Crypto.com Arena. The venue also marks the city where Tsarukyan was forced to withdraw one day before UFC 311, when he lost the opportunity to challenge Islam Makhachev for the undisputed lightweight title.