In the world of mixed martial arts, few fighters have exhibited the stellar performance of Islam Makhachev, who many consider the reigning king of the lightweight division, except, notably, UFC CEO Dana White. However, a refreshing twist comes from Arman Tsarukyan, a highly ambitious contender who believes that the admiration for Makhachev’s skills may be somewhat exaggerated. Tsarukyan, with an impressive record of 22 wins and 3 losses in MMA, and 9 wins with 2 losses in the UFC, is brimming with confidence ahead of their highly anticipated clash for the UFC lightweight title at UFC 311 this January.
The backdrop to this title bout is Tsarukyan’s previous encounter with Makhachev back in April 2019, during what marked Tsarukyan’s debut in the octagon. This fight, memorably taken on short notice, not only tested Tsarukyan’s mettle but also showcased his remarkable potential. Despite losing via unanimous decision, Tsarukyan’s performance was a testament to his resilience and skill. He was able to take Makhachev down during their bout, an impressive feat that he feels has been overlooked in the shadow of Makhachev’s successes. This shared history fuels Tsarukyan’s belief that he can pull off an upset and dethrone Makhachev, a sentiment that few fighters possess against such a formidable champion.
For Tsarukyan, the narrative surrounding Makhachev’s prowess is misleading. While many have heralded Makhachev’s wrestling as near-invincible, Tsarukyan suggests that this reputation may not be entirely accurate. “People think he’s unbeatable, like crazy wrestling, but I took him down when I was 22 years old,” he contends, challenging the notion that Makhachev is an unassailable fighter. Tsarukyan’s insights are not just hollow criticisms; they reflect a well-analyzed perspective grounded in personal experience.
Moreover, Tsarukyan’s ambition is more than a passing phase. It is robust, rooted in his never-before-held title aspirations. As he expresses, “I’m young and hungry. I’ve never had the belt, so it drives me very well.” This raw desire for victory can serve as a critical motivator, pushing him to harness the energy and determination necessary to challenge a champion like Makhachev.
As the fight date draws near, the narrative surrounding this bout is shaping up to be an exciting clash of perspectives. While Makhachev exudes confidence steeped in a remarkable track record, Tsarukyan’s belief in his own ability adds an unpredictable edge to the fight. With aspirations as high as his fighting spirit, Tsarukyan is ready to make his mark in the lightweight division and rewrite the narrative that surrounds Islam Makhachev. Whether he can realize this dream remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Tsarukyan is ready to rise and show the world that he is more than just an underdog in this title fight.