UFC President Dana White commented on Arman Tsarukyan's recent activity, stating he likes what he's seeing from the lightweight contender. White indicated that Tsarukyan is now just one step away from earning a title shot—he simply needs to avoid behaving like a 'maniac.' Meanwhile, Tsarukyan expressed doubts about fighting Islam Makhachev, suggesting the champion will retire after a couple more fights. Tsarukyan believes he will capture the lightweight title and become the face of the UFC within a year. White also referred to Tsarukyan as a 'tough bastard,' showing respect for the Armenian fighter's abilities.
UFC President Dana White has voiced strong approval of Arman Tsarukyan's recent conduct, telling media that the Armenian lightweight contender is just one step away from a title shot — provided he keeps his behavior in check and avoids acting like a "maniac."
Tsarukyan, nicknamed "Ahalkalakets," holds a 23-3 record and sits at number one in the lightweight rankings at just 29 years old. Fighting out of American Top Team, the five-foot-seven Orthodox striker is one of the division's most active offensive threats, landing 3.85 significant strikes per minute while also averaging 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes. White reportedly called him a "tough bastard," a characterization that reflects the respect the contender has built inside the organization.
Standing across the division is lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, who carries a 28-1 record and holds the number one pound-for-pound ranking. The 34-year-old Russian, fighting out of Eagles MMA, is known for his dominant grappling — averaging 3.2 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes — while also posting a striking accuracy of 58 percent. Makhachev holds the welterweight title according to the verified data on file.
Adding an extra layer to the story, Tsarukyan himself expressed skepticism about whether a fight with Makhachev will materialize, suggesting the champion may retire after only a couple more bouts. Despite that uncertainty, Tsarukyan stated his belief that he will capture the lightweight title and become the face of the UFC within the next year.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the division's top-ranked contender, and White's comments suggest a title shot is within reach pending no behavioral concerns
- Tsarukyan's public doubts about Makhachev's longevity introduce uncertainty around when or whether that matchup gets made
- A pairing of two fighters averaging over three takedowns per 15 minutes would make for a compelling grappling-heavy clash at the top of lightweight
