Arman Tsarukyan stated that a fight with Islam Makhachev is unlikely to happen, believing the champion will retire after a couple more bouts. The Armenian contender expressed confidence that he will capture the UFC within the next year. Tsarukyan said that when people see him, they will think of the UFC, as he plans to become the face of the sport. He emphasized that only the title remains for him to achieve this status. Dana White reportedly said he likes Tsarukyan's current activity level and that he simply needs to avoid acting like a "maniac" to secure his title shot.
Arman Tsarukyan has publicly stated that he expects to hold UFC gold within the next year, while suggesting that a rematch with lightweight champion Islam Makhachev may never materialize due to what he believes will be the champion's imminent retirement.
Tsarukyan, known as "Ahalkalakets," enters this conversation as the top-ranked lightweight contender in the UFC. The 29-year-old represents Russia by way of Armenia and trains out of American Top Team, carrying a record of 23-3. He is one of the division's most active offensive fighters, landing 3.85 significant strikes per minute and averaging 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes — a combination that makes him dangerous in virtually every phase of a fight.
Makhachev, meanwhile, holds the lightweight title and sits at the top of the pound-for-pound rankings with a 28-1 record. The 34-year-old Russian, who trains with Eagles MMA, is one of the most complete fighters in the sport, posting a 58 percent striking accuracy and averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes. Tsarukyan indicated he does not expect Makhachev to continue fighting long enough for another meeting between the two to take shape.
Tsarukyan expressed a desire to become the face of the UFC, framing the title as the only remaining obstacle to that goal. He also referenced comments from Dana White, who reportedly praised his recent activity level while advising him to stay composed in order to secure a title shot.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the No. 1 ranked lightweight and the most logical next challenger for Makhachev's belt
- His remarks suggest he believes the championship picture could shift quickly if Makhachev steps away
- A fighter of his dual striking and grappling output would test any champion in the division
