Compatriot Warns Arman Tsarukyan before Taking On Islam Makhachev: “Needs to Work”

UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan gets advice for a potential clash against the pound-for-pound king, Islam Makhachev. 

Compatriot Warns Arman Tsarukyan before Taking On Islam Makhachev: “Needs to Work”

Arman Tsarukyan vs. Islam Makhachev (via X)

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Arman Tsarukyan is one of the leading contenders competing within the highly competitive UFC lightweight division. The fighter came extremely close to fighting reigning champion Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title earlier this year. However, he lost that opportunity, but has not abandoned the idea of a highly anticipated rematch against the Dagestani champion.

Many fans and experts have stated that Arman Tsarukyan possesses tools capable of creating serious problems for Makhachev. The fighter has incredible wrestling that could potentially stop Makhachev from consistently taking him down during exchanges inside the cage. However, fellow Armenian and former UFC fighter Manny Gamburyan thinks otherwise while comparing both fighters’ overall skillsets in detail.

If Arman ends up fighting Islam, Arman needs to work on his judo. Every time Islam took Arman down, it was judo. Islam can’t take Arman down in wrestling. The trips that Islam does are all judo.

Manny Gamburyan via The Jaxxon Podcast 

Arman Tsarukyan and Makhachev have already fought each other inside the UFC Octagon earlier in their lightweight careers professionally. The bout took place on short notice for Tsarukyan, who accepted the fight bravely against a rising contender. Despite strong moments from Tsarukyan, Islam Makhachev controlled key exchanges and won the fight by unanimous decision over three rounds.

Makhachev repeatedly used his judo trips to disrupt Tsarukyan’s rhythm and score consistent takedowns throughout the intense contest. That performance showcased Makhachev’s elite grappling and remains a key reference point in discussions about a potential rematch. Since then, both fighters have developed, especially the Dagestani, with immense championship experience.

Makhachev has also evolved his striking skills and has shown that by knocking out his opponents and taking on elite strikers. At UFC 322, the fighter made his welterweight debut and beat Jack Della Maddalena via unanimous decision, mostly with his wrestling. Going forward, Makhachev is focused on defending the welterweight title the most number of times, starting with Kamaru Usman. 

The fighter has mentioned that he has no interest in moving down to the lightweight division, given the tough weight cuts. For Arman Tsarukyan, the biggest upcoming challenge is not Makhachev but the lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria.

Arman Tsarukyan slams Ilia Topuria’s recent comments 

Ilia Topuria became the UFC lightweight champion by knocking out former champ Charles Oliveira in the first round at UFC 317, claiming the vacant title emphatically in June 2025. Since winning gold, Topuria’s status has sparked tension with Arman Tsarukyan, who recently dominated Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar.

Arman Tsarukyan slams Ilia Topuria
Arman Tsarukyan slams Ilia Topuria (via X)

Their rivalry has included back-and-forth exchanges on social media and in interviews, as Tsarukyan insists he deserves the next shot. In a recent interview, ‘El Matador’ mocked Tsarukyan, essentially discrediting his chances for the title shot. In response, the Armenian snapped back at the champion, talking about his personal issues. 

You talking about taking time off from fighting to fix your family issues, but it looks like you have plenty of free time for all these interviews. You’re a joke El Panocha 

Arman Tsarukyan via X 

Ilia Topuria is currently dealing with serious family issues, which have prevented him from competing or defending his title anytime soon. Due to Topuria’s absence, the UFC booked UFC 324 featuring Paddy Pimblett against Justin Gaethje for interim gold. 

Meanwhile, UFC CEO Dana White has denied Arman Tsarukyan a title shot, citing past issues regarding the UFC 311 controversy.  It will be interesting to see potential changes in the 2026 given the uncertainty of the lightweight division.

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