UFC 331 Fight Card, Full Lineup, Start Times, and How to Watch

Quick Answer

UFC 331 takes place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. The event is headlined by a lightweight rematch between Arman Tsarukyan and Charles Oliveira, with major title implications for the division.

As of early August 2026, six fights have been announced, with the full card expected to grow in the weeks leading up to the event.

Key Facts

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Venue: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California
Main Event: Arman Tsarukyan vs. Charles Oliveira 2 (Lightweight)
Current fight count: 6 announced bouts (as of early August 2026)
Rankings context: Tsarukyan enters as the No. 2-ranked UFC lightweight contender
Oliveira's status: Former UFC lightweight champion and current BMF titleholder
Title implications: The winner positions themselves for a shot at the lightweight belt, with the division waiting on Justin Gaethje's next move

The Rematch Six Years in the Making

The headline fight at UFC 331 isn't just another lightweight contender bout — it's a collision of two men whose paths have intertwined since their first meeting back at UFC 300 in April 2024. That night, Oliveira and Tsarukyan faced off at the ceremonial weigh-ins, and their eventual fight delivered the kind of competitive chaos that defines the lightweight division at its best.

For Tsarukyan, this rematch represents something deeply personal: a chance to avenge a loss. The Georgian-born fighter has spent the years since that first encounter climbing the rankings, developing his striking, and refining the wrestling-heavy game that makes him one of the most difficult matchups in the division.

Now sitting at No. 2, he's one win away from a title shot — provided he can solve the Oliveira puzzle this time.

Oliveira's journey has been different but equally compelling. The Brazilian isn't just a former champion; he's the current BMF titleholder, a distinction that speaks to his willingness to engage in exactly the kind of war this rematch promises to be.

His submission game remains among the most dangerous in MMA history, and his ability to find finishes from seemingly impossible positions has made him a fan favorite for over a decade.

What Changed Since the First Fight

The first encounter between these two was a competitive, back-and-forth affair that showcased both fighters' strengths. Oliveira's pressure and grappling acumen tested Tsarukyan early, while Tsarukyan's wrestling and improved striking kept him in the fight throughout.

In the end, Oliveira's experience in big moments proved decisive. Since then, both men have evolved.

Tsarukyan has looked sharper, more patient, and more willing to let his hands go. His performances against ranked opposition have shown a fighter who has learned from his losses and closed the gaps in his game.

Oliveira, meanwhile, has added the BMF belt to his collection, embracing the chaos that comes with that title while continuing to hunt for finishes. The lightweight division has shifted around them too.

Justin Gaethje's uncertainty about his next move has left a void at the top, and this fight feels like a de facto title eliminator. The winner can make a compelling case that they deserve the next shot at the belt, regardless of who holds it.

The Full Card So Far

While the main event has captured most of the attention, UFC 331's undercard features several intriguing matchups that could steal the show. Here's what's been announced as of early August 2026:

Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan 2 (Lightweight Main Event)

The rematch headlines the card. Oliveira's BMF title is not on the line, but the stakes are arguably higher: a clear path to the lightweight championship.

Tsarukyan's wrestling presents a unique challenge for Oliveira, who has historically struggled with elite grapplers who can neutralize his takedown game. Conversely, Oliveira's submission threats from his back make him dangerous even when he's losing positions.

Renato Moicano vs. Brian Ortega (Featherweight)

This is a fascinating stylistic clash. Moicano has reinvented himself in recent years, showing improved striking and cardio while maintaining his Brazilian jiu-jitsu pedigree.

Ortega, a perennial contender known for his own submission skills and incredible durability, presents a different kind of challenge. Both men are comfortable on the ground, which could lead to a chess match on the mat or a surprising striking battle.

Charles Jourdain vs. Marlon Vera (Bantamweight)

Jourdain moving down to bantamweight is a significant storyline here. The Canadian has always been an exciting, aggressive striker, but his inconsistency has held him back.

Vera, a veteran of the division, is exactly the kind of test that will reveal whether Jourdain's move down in weight was the right call. Vera's pressure and leg kicks could be a problem for Jourdain if he can't establish his own rhythm early.

Ryan Gandra vs. Ozzy Diaz (Middleweight)

This is a matchup between two fighters looking to make a statement and climb the middleweight ladder. Gandra's grappling-heavy approach will test Diaz's takedown defense, while Diaz's power gives him a puncher's chance at any moment.

Fights like this often determine the next wave of contenders in a division that's always in flux.

Dooho Choi vs. Patricio Freire (Featherweight)

This is a throwback fight in the best possible way. Choi, the Korean featherweight known for his exciting brawls, faces Freire, the former Bellator champion now testing himself in the UFC.

Freire's pedigree is undeniable — he's one of the most accomplished fighters to ever compete outside the UFC — and this matchup pits his power and experience against Choi's volume and durability. It's the kind of fight that could produce a highlight-reel finish.

Eduarda Moura vs. Casey O'Neill (Women's Flyweight)

O'Neill has been on the radar as a future contender for years, but injuries have slowed her momentum. Moura represents a fresh challenge — a Brazilian prospect with solid grappling and improving striking.

This fight is about momentum: whoever wins positions themselves for a significant step up in competition.

Why This Card Matters for the Lightweight Division

The lightweight division is arguably the most talent-rich weight class in the UFC, and UFC 331 sits at the center of its current chaos. Understanding why requires looking at the broader picture.

The Gaethje Factor

Justin Gaethje's indecision about his fighting future has created a logjam at the top of the lightweight division. As long as he's neither fighting nor officially retiring, contenders are left in limbo.

This fight between Tsarukyan and Oliveira effectively functions as a way to force the issue — the winner will have a legitimate claim to the next title shot, and it'll be hard for the UFC to deny them.

The Champion's Dilemma

Whoever holds the lightweight belt after the dust settles will have to contend with the winner of this fight. Tsarukyan's wrestling and improving striking make him a nightmare matchup for almost anyone.

Oliveira's finishing ability means he's never out of a fight. Either man presents a unique set of problems for the champion, which is precisely why this matchup is so compelling.

What a Win Means for Each Fighter

For Tsarukyan, a win here would be the culmination of years of development. He's said repeatedly that he believes he's the best lightweight in the world, and beating a former champion and current BMF titleholder would be the strongest evidence yet.

It would also set up a narrative-rich title fight, given his history with the division's elite. For Oliveira, a win would solidify his claim as one of the greatest lightweights of all time.

He's already accomplished more than most — a UFC title, a BMF belt, and a highlight reel that spans over a decade. Beating Tsarukyan in a rematch would add another marquee name to his resume and keep him in the title conversation at 36 years old.

Start Times and How to Watch

As of early August 2026, the UFC has not released the official broadcast details for UFC 331. However, based on the event's location and the UFC's standard practices, fans can expect a familiar format.

Expected Start Times

The event takes place on the West Coast, which typically means earlier start times for East Coast viewers and international audiences. Based on recent UFC events at Crypto.com Arena, the preliminary card can be expected to begin in the late afternoon Pacific Time, with the main card starting in the early evening.

For international viewers, the times will vary significantly. European fans can typically expect the main card to begin in the early morning hours of September 20, while Asian fans may catch the event live on the morning of September 20 as well.

Broadcast Platform Expectations

The UFC has been using a combination of its own streaming service, UFC Fight Pass, and traditional pay-per-view for major events. For a card headlined by a fight with this much title implication, a pay-per-view model is expected.

The early prelims will likely stream on UFC Fight Pass, with the main card available through traditional pay-per-view providers. Fans in the Los Angeles area should note that Crypto.com Arena is a world-class venue with excellent sightlines from nearly every seat.

The atmosphere for a card this significant should be electric, particularly given the passionate fan bases that both Oliveira and Tsarukyan bring to their fights.

How to Ensure You Don't Miss It

For fans planning to watch, the best approach is to check the official UFC website and app as the event approaches. The UFC typically announces broadcast details and start times about two to three weeks before the event.

Following the promotion's social media accounts is also a reliable way to stay updated on any card changes or additions.

Analyzing the Main Event Matchup

Breaking down Tsarukyan vs. Oliveira 2 requires understanding what made the first fight competitive and what's changed since.

Tsarukyan's Path to Victory

Tsarukyan's wrestling is his greatest weapon. In the first fight, he was able to take Oliveira down and control positions, but he struggled to maintain that control against Oliveira's relentless scrambling and submission threats.

The key for Tsarukyan this time will be patience — understanding that he doesn't need to finish Oliveira to win, just to outwork him over three rounds (or five, if the UFC elevates this to a five-round main event, which is likely). His striking has improved significantly since their first meeting.

Tsarukyan now sets up his takedowns with feints and sharp combinations, making him less predictable. If he can threaten Oliveira on the feet while also being a constant takedown threat, he can keep Oliveira guessing and control the pace of the fight.

Oliveira's Path to Victory

Oliveira's path is simpler in concept but harder to execute: find a finish. He's historically been at his best when he's pressuring opponents and forcing them into exchanges where his submission game can take over.

Tsarukyan's defensive grappling is excellent, but Oliveira has submitted some of the best grapplers in the sport's history. The question is whether Oliveira's chin and durability can hold up against Tsarukyan's improved striking.

At 36, Oliveira is still capable of elite performances, but the margins get thinner with each fight. He'll need to be smart about when to engage and when to reset, avoiding the kind of reckless exchanges that could leave him vulnerable to a knockout.

The X-Factor Fight IQ

Both fighters have shown significant improvement in their fight IQ over the years. Oliveira has learned to be more patient, picking his spots rather than forcing the action.

Tsarukyan has learned to trust his instincts, not abandoning his wrestling when things get tough. The fighter who executes their game plan more effectively will likely leave Los Angeles with the biggest win of their career.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is UFC 331?

UFC 331 is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

Who is fighting in the main event of UFC 331?

The main event features a lightweight rematch between Arman Tsarukyan and Charles Oliveira. Tsarukyan is the No.

2-ranked lightweight contender, while Oliveira is the former UFC lightweight champion and current BMF titleholder.

Is the UFC lightweight title on the line at UFC 331?

No. The fight is not for the lightweight championship, but it carries significant title implications.

The winner is expected to position themselves for a shot at the belt.

How can I watch UFC 331?

Broadcast details have not been officially announced as of early August 2026. Based on the UFC's standard practices, the event is expected to be available on pay-per-view, with early prelims on UFC Fight Pass.

Check the official UFC website for updated information as the event approaches.

How many fights are currently announced for UFC 331?

As of early August 2026, six fights have been announced. Additional fights are expected to be added in the weeks leading up to the event.

Will there be a title fight on the card?

Based on the announced lineup, there is no championship fight scheduled. However, the main event could be elevated to a five-round fight given its significance in the lightweight division.

Reference Notes

Information in this article is based on publicly available sources. Some details may change over time.

Verify with official sources before acting. Fight cards are subject to change, and broadcast details had not been officially announced as of the publication date.

Related Buying Guides