Dana White has expressed approval of Arman Tsarukyan's recent activity and stated that the Armenian fighter is close to earning a title shot. White advised Tsarukyan that he simply needs to avoid behaving like a "maniac" to secure the championship opportunity. Tsarukyan himself has stated his belief that a fight with Islam Makhachev is unlikely, predicting Makhachev will retire after a couple more fights. The lightweight contender declared his intention to capture the title within a year and become the face of the UFC. White's comments suggest Tsarukyan is firmly in title contention following his recent performances.
UFC President Dana White has publicly backed Arman Tsarukyan's title credentials, saying the Armenian lightweight is on the cusp of a championship shot after a stretch of strong recent performances.
Tsarukyan, known as "Ahalkalakets," carries a 23-3 record and sits at number one in the lightweight rankings at just 29 years old. Representing Russia and training out of American Top Team, the five-foot-seven orthodox fighter has quietly built one of the division's most well-rounded statistical profiles, averaging 3.85 significant strikes per minute alongside 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes. His 72-inch reach — notably long for his frame — adds an additional layer to his versatility.
White's endorsement came with a caveat: he advised Tsarukyan to simply avoid erratic behavior off the canvas, suggesting that conduct, rather than performance, is the only remaining obstacle between the contender and a title fight.
Tsarukyan himself offered a candid outlook, expressing doubt that a matchup with lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is likely in the near future. He predicted Makhachev will retire after a few more fights and declared his own intention to claim the belt within a year and establish himself as the face of the promotion.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1 record and currently reigns as champion, also holding the number one pound-for-pound ranking. The Russian finishes at a high rate, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and connecting on 58 percent of his significant strikes.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the ranked number one lightweight contender, making him the most logical next challenger for the title
- White's public praise signals organizational momentum behind a potential Makhachev matchup, even as Tsarukyan himself doubts it materializes
- A stylistic clash between two high-volume grapplers with elite striking would present a competitive puzzle at the top of a stacked division
