Arman Tsarukyan reportedly struggled against Islam Makhachev at UFC 331

A report circulating on social media suggests Arman Tsarukyan found himself in serious trouble against Islam Makhachev at UFC 331, with footage or commentary indicating Tsarukyan was dominated at some point during their contest on September 16, 2026.

Tsarukyan, known by the nickname "Ahalkalakets," enters this matchup as one of the lightweight division's most dangerous contenders. The 29-year-old Russian, who trains out of American Top Team, carries a 23-3-0 record and holds the number-two ranking in the lightweight division. He is an active offensive fighter, averaging 3.85 significant strikes per minute and 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes, though submission attempts have rarely been a feature of his game.

Makhachev, 34, is a southpaw from Russia who competes as a welterweight champion with a 29-1-0 record and holds the top pound-for-pound ranking in the sport. Fighting out of Eagles MMA, he averages 3.22 takedowns per 15 minutes and a striking accuracy of 58 percent, making him one of the most well-rounded fighters in the world. His 29-1-0 record reflects a career built on dominant, suffocating grappling and increasingly sharp striking.

Why it matters

• Makhachev's grappling has long been considered a potential nightmare matchup for almost any opponent, and this report suggests Tsarukyan could not escape it.
• A loss would deal a significant blow to Tsarukyan's positioning as a top lightweight contender and potentially set back his title aspirations.
• The divisional and pound-for-pound implications of Makhachev's continued dominance reinforce his status at the pinnacle of the sport.