Arman Tsarukyan Doesn’t See Undefeated Usman Nurmagomedov as a Threat in UFC Lightweight Division

UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan is set take on Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331.

Arman Tsarukyan Doesn’t See Undefeated Usman Nurmagomedov as a Threat in UFC Lightweight Division

Arman Tsarukyan diminishes Usman Nurmagomedov (via Bloody Elbow, Instagram)

Arman Tsarukyan has no shortage of confidence despite his inactivity inside the UFC octagon. He last fought Dan Hooker in November 2025 after defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. He now faces Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331, with a win potentially putting him back in title contention.

Usman Nurmagomedov is one of the leading lightweights outside the UFC, holding an undefeated 22-0 record. The PFL lightweight champion recently knocked out Archie Colgan at PFL New York. The victory came in the final fight of his PFL contract, fueling speculation about a potential UFC debut.

Nurmagomedov recently claimed he would dominate the UFC lightweight division if he makes the move. The undefeated Dagestani also viewed the division’s current top names as washed and easy matchups. Tsarukyan was asked about those comments during the inaugural UFC 331 press conference in Los Angeles.

We have seen a lot of people who come to the UFC and lose, other promotions are not the UFC. So, he’s going to be the same.

Arman Tsarukyan via UFC 331 press conference

Nurmagomedov has also hinted at a potential UFC debut following his victory in New York. The champion said the best financial opportunity would play a major role in deciding his future.

His manager, Ali Abdelaziz, has since revealed that Nurmagomedov’s future remains uncertain as they consider all available options.

Interestingly, UFC CEO Dana White has remained open to signing the undefeated superstar for years. White was recently asked about the UFC’s interest in Nurmagomedov and indicated that the promotion remains interested. This has further fueled speculation about a potential UFC debut.

This is not the first time Nurmagomedov and Tsarukyan have exchanged shots. After beating Alexander Shabliy, Nurmagomedov discussed Tsarukyan’s style and said preparation would have been different.

The Dagestan rising star then took a jab at Tsarukyan’s record, noting that he remained undefeated while the Armenian star has three losses. The Armenian contender has been strongly linked to an undisputed title shot if he defeats Ruffy at UFC 331.

UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje plans to remain sidelined until 2027 while taking time away from competition. The champion has also recognized Tsarukyan’s credentials, strengthening his case for a potential title opportunity.

Arman Tsarukyan’s comments highlight the UFC’s depth, where proven champions from other promotions can struggle after arriving. Patchy Mix entered the UFC as a former Bellator champion but lost both UFC fights before his release. Usman Nurmagomedov would now face that same test if he makes the move to the UFC.

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Arman Tsarukyan looks to avoid brawl against polarizing star at RAF 14

Arman Tsarukyan has developed a reputation for finding trouble during his UFC career, with several incidents drawing attention outside the Octagon. This was clear at UFC 300 when he punched a fan during his walkout, resulting in a $25,000 fine and a nine-month suspension.

Tsarukyan’s history of altercations continued at RAF 6 when his wrestling match with Georgio Poullas descended into a brawl. The Armenian star won 5-3 before tensions escalated between both sides and sparked a confrontation involving their teams. They later met again at RAF 7, where Tsarukyan defeated Poullas 9-3 to settle their rivalry.

Arman Tsarukyan
Arman Tsarukyan (via MMA Mania)

Tsarukyan is now set to face Dillon Danis at RAF 14 on October 13 in Las Vegas. Danis previously faced Tsarukyan’s teammate Khamzat Chimaev at RAF 10, where a post-match brawl erupted. However, the UFC lightweight contender believes the same situation will not repeat when he faces Danis.

Let’s see. But I hope nothing happens. We just go there we wrestle and I defeat him and we go home.

Arman Tsarukyan via MMA Fighting

Arman Tsarukyan will look to stay out of trouble after multiple incidents previously put him in the UFC’s doghouse. However, Danis remains a polarizing presence who has often sparked tensions with opponents. The Armenian superstar will hope their wrestling match avoids another confrontation.

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