Arman Tsarukyan stated he believes he would have defeated Khabib Nurmagomedov by decision, citing his versatility as a key advantage. Daniel Cormier proposed an unconventional career continuation for Islam Makhachev, suggesting a fight with Conor McGregor. The post also notes that Jiri Prochazka is highly rated by UFC brass, having fought in four title fights across eight UFC appearances. Additionally, Dana White expressed relief at stepping back from fighter negotiations, saying the company has outgrown that phase and he grew tired of dealing with often frivolous fighter issues. Tsarukyan was reportedly ready to bet $1 million on Khamzat Chimaev's victory, but his opponent in the wager lowered the amount to $50,000.
Arman Tsarukyan stirred debate this week by declaring he would have defeated the undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov by decision, pointing to his own versatility as the deciding factor. Separately, Daniel Cormier floated an unconventional idea for lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, suggesting a blockbuster matchup with Conor McGregor. The comments surfaced amid a busy news cycle that also included praise for Jiri Prochazka from UFC leadership and Dana White sounding off on fighter negotiations.
Tsarukyan's confidence in the hypothetical is notable given the legacy of Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired with a perfect 29-0-0 record. The Russian grappling machine averaged an extraordinary 5.32 takedowns per 15 minutes throughout his career, making him one of the most dominant wrestlers in the sport's history. Tsarukyan also reportedly told associates he was prepared to wager one million dollars on Khamzat Chimaev winning a recent bout, though the counterparty reduced the bet to fifty thousand dollars.
Cormier's suggestion that Islam Makhachev step outside his division to face McGregor would represent a significant departure for the reigning champion. Makhachev, 34, carries a 28-1-0 record and holds the top pound-for-pound ranking. The southpaw finisher connects at a 58 percent striking accuracy rate and attempts 1.1 submissions per 15 minutes, underscoring a complete skill set that has made him difficult for any opponent to solve.
Jiri Prochazka also earned a mention after UFC brass spoke highly of the Czech light heavyweight contender. The 33-year-old ranks second in the division with a 32-6-1 record across a career that has included four title fights in just eight UFC appearances. Standing six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach, Prochazka lands 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy, making him one of the more dynamic offensive presences in the 205-pound division.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan's hypothetical claim keeps his name in the lightweight conversation ahead of a potential title shot
- Cormier's Makhachev-McGregor proposal, if ever pursued, would be among the most commercially significant fights in recent memory
- Prochazka's standing with UFC leadership signals he remains a priority booking at light heavyweight
- White's remarks about stepping back from fighter negotiations hint at structural changes in how the promotion handles contracts
