“No need to make Makhachev invincible superhero!” Arman Tsarukyan shuts down Islam Makhachev’s hype and refuses to train ‘special’ for rematch

Arman Tsarukyan doesn't think he needs any special training for his potential rematch against Islam Makhachev.

“No need to make Makhachev invincible superhero!” Arman Tsarukyan shuts down Islam Makhachev’s hype and refuses to train ‘special’ for rematch

Arman Tsarukyan believes he doesn't require any additional training for against Islam Makhachev (via Imago)

Arman Tsarukyan is the likely next challenger for Islam Makhachev’s lightweight crown. The Armenian fighter made it clear that he won’t let the mystique surrounding the Dagestani champion intimidate him. Tsarukyan was confident in his abilities and strongly believed he could win against Makhachev.

Tsarukyan was recently interviewed by KP Sport. He questioned the very notion of Makhachev being some unbeatable force that requires “special preparations” to solve. He stated that Makhachev was as human as any other fighter.

It was people who came up with the idea in their heads that Islam is special. The same person, but they made him an undefeated champion. Although he also lost, he was also knocked out. We are all human, we can all lose. There is no need to make Makhachev an invincible superhero.
Arman Tsarukyan via KP Sport
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The confident No. 1 contender reminded fans that Islam Makhachev had also lost. The Armenian contender was referring to Makhachev’s first career UFC defeat. This was a KO loss to Adriano Martins back in 2015. This was well before his current 11-fight win streak and championship reign.

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Makhachev is coming off a KO victory against Alexander Volkanovski. He is now set to fight Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. Tsarukyan, on the other hand, is coming off a decision win against Charles Oliviera at UFC 300. He will most likely fight the winner of Makhachev vs. Poirier.

Arman Tsarukyan gets support from Aljamain Sterling for turning down the short-notice fight

Former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling gave his stamp of approval to Arman Tsarukyan‘s choice. Tsarukyan had decided to take his time before challenging for the lightweight title. This came after defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 to claim the No. 1 contender spot.

Aljamain Sterling supports Arman Tsarukyan's decision
Aljamain Sterling supports Arman Tsarukyan’s decision (via MMA Fighting/ MMA Weekly)

Many expected Tsarukyan to quickly turn around and face Islam Makhachev for the 155-pound strap at UFC 302. However, the Armenian contender opted to pass on the short-notice opportunity in favor of a full training camp. Sterling supported his decision, having personal experience in the matter.

Short notice title fights are risky business. I think he’s making the right move. I rather see them at their best, with full camps, If Dustin doesn’t score the upset in June. Exciting times!
Aljamain Sterling via an Instagram comment

Sterling made it clear the No. 1 contender should face Makhachev when they’re both fully prepared and at their best. Makhachev himself wanted to see Tsarukyan throw down for a title at UFC 302. However, Sterling is fully aboard the Armenian contender’s plan to take his time and leave no stone unturned.

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