UFC President Dana White commented on Arman Tsarukyan's current standing and path to a title shot, saying he likes Tsarukyan's recent activity levels. White stated that Tsarukyan is close to securing a title bout and just needs to avoid behaving like a 'maniac' to get there. White also called the Armenian-born fighter a 'tough bastard,' indicating respect for his abilities. Tsarukyan himself expressed doubt about fighting Islam Makhachev for the title, believing Makhachev will retire after a couple more fights. The lightweight contender stated his ambition to become the face of the UFC within a year once he captures the title.
UFC President Dana White has publicly addressed lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan's path to a title shot, offering a blunt assessment that the 29-year-old is close to a championship opportunity — provided he keeps his behavior in check.
White praised Tsarukyan's recent activity levels inside the Octagon and expressed clear respect for the fighter, calling him a "tough bastard." However, the UFC president made equally clear that Tsarukyan needs to stop acting like a "maniac" if he wants to secure the next lightweight title shot.
Tsarukyan, known by the nickname "Ahalkalakets," currently sits as the number-one ranked lightweight contender with a 23-3 record. The Russia-based fighter, who trains out of American Top Team, is one of the more well-rounded threats in the 155-pound division. He lands 3.85 significant strikes per minute and averages 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes, making him a dual threat on the feet and on the mat. His 72-inch reach gives him a notable physical advantage over many opponents at lightweight despite standing five-foot-seven.
The reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev enters the picture with a 28-1 record and holds the number-one pound-for-pound ranking. The 34-year-old southpaw from Russia finishes opponents with his grappling as often as his striking, averaging 3.2 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes while posting a striking accuracy of 58 percent.
Tsarukyan himself cast doubt on whether Makhachev would even be the champion by the time a title fight materializes, suggesting he believes Makhachev will retire after a few more bouts. Tsarukyan also stated his ambition to become the face of the UFC within a year of capturing the title.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the division's top-ranked contender and, per White, legitimately close to a title shot
- Makhachev's potential retirement timeline could reshape the lightweight title picture entirely
- A Tsarukyan title run would pit one of the division's most active strikers and takedown artists against whoever holds the belt
