UFC president Dana White has stated he is impressed with Arman Tsarukyan's current activity level in the division. White indicated that Tsarukyan is very close to earning a title shot and simply needs to avoid behaving like a "maniac" to secure the opportunity. Separately, Tsarukyan expressed doubt that a fight with Islam Makhachev will materialize, believing the champion will retire after a couple more fights. The Armenian contender boldly predicted he will capture the lightweight title within a year and become the face of the UFC. Tsarukyan is positioning himself as the next dominant force in the lightweight division.
