Arman Tsarukyan Still Not Over Islam Makhachev Rematch Fumble: “I’ll Be Waiting”

Top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan talks about his rivalry with former champion Islam Makhachev and canceled rematch.

Arman Tsarukyan Still Not Over Islam Makhachev Rematch Fumble: “I’ll Be Waiting”

Arman Tsarukyan is still waiting to fight Islam Makhachev (via Imago)

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The lightweight division experienced a dramatic shift after Islam Makhachev vacated his title to pursue opportunities in the welterweight division. Ilia Topuria capitalized on the opening and defeated former champion Charles Oliveira in dominant fashion to claim the vacant lightweight championship. Now, contenders like Arman Tsarukyan are aggressively campaigning for a title shot.

On paper, Tsarukyan stands as one of the most deserving lightweight contenders, though his next fight remains unconfirmed. The Armenian star believes he can dethrone Topuria in a potential title clash, showcasing confidence in his skills and preparation. In a recent interview, Tsarukyan discussed future plans, including settling unfinished business with his old rival, Makhachev.

I’m gonna defend as much as possible. I wanna be the greatest fighter in the world. I know how I work, how I dedicate for this sport. I know I gotta be the best. In this sport because I love it so much. I will be waiting for him (Makhachev) at 155. 

Arman Tsarukyan via The JAXXON Podcast 

Tsarukyan was initially scheduled to face Makhachev at UFC 311, but a sudden back injury forced his withdrawal. Makhachev instead fought last-minute replacement Renato Moicano, securing a dominant submission victory to defend his lightweight championship belt. As a consequence, UFC CEO Dana White punished Tsarukyan by making him earn his title shot again. 

Tsarukyan has actively pursued fights against top contenders like Charles Oliveira, yet failed to secure a matchup, leaving him inactive. Since then, he has patiently awaited a championship opportunity, staying ready and maintaining peak condition in hopes of earning a title shot. 

He has relentlessly targeted Ilia Topuria with online jibes, memes, and sarcastic posts, attempting to provoke a reaction or commitment. However, Dana White made it clear that the Armenian contender will need to fight once more before receiving the title shot.

Despite his consistent trash talk and creative social media campaigns, Tsarukyan’s efforts have not translated into any tangible progress toward the fight. Fans now question whether the lightweight contender’s provocations will ever convince the champion to accept.

Arman Tsarukyan slams the newly crowned lightweight champion 

After his dominant title victory, Ilia Topuria immediately found himself in the crosshairs of every top contender in the lightweight division. A heated face-off with Paddy Pimblett fueled interest, with Topuria eyeing the UK native for massive pay-per-view potential and global attention. However, his rejection of Arman Tsarukyan’s persistent callouts sparked widespread criticism from fight fans.

Arman Tsarukyan wants to clash against Ilia Topuria
Arman Tsarukyan wants to clash against Ilia Topuria (via X)

Many even compared Topuria with Jon Jones, as the former heavyweight avoided fighting Tom Aspinall before his retirement. Recently, UFC veteran Chael Sonnen talked about Topuria potentially fighting the Armenian next. When asked about the same, Tsarukyan shared his opinion while hoping for the best. 

I hope so. I hope so. I want to fight for the title. I’ve been waiting for so long. They didn’t tell anything yet to me. So I’m still waiting, training, and trying to call out Ilia as much as possible. He (Topuria) knows that, and he wants to get an easy fight with Paddy [Pimblett] or [Justin] Gaethje or someone. Just make money, and do the fans. But with me, it’s going to be hard for him.

Arman Tsarukyan via Cageside Press 

Tsarukyan has openly dismissed Topuria as nothing special, frequently mocking the champion’s wrestling skills and overall fighting style. He has even labeled Topuria an “Alibaba version of Conor McGregor,” claiming the champion relies more on hype than actual substance. Nevertheless, fans eagerly await seeing if Tsarukyan will finally receive his much-anticipated title shot in the coming months.

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