UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has openly declared his intention to secure a knockout victory over Islam Makhachev, should they ever face each other again. Their initial clash occurred in 2019, marking Tsarukyan’s UFC debut, where he ultimately lost a three-round decision to the formidable Dagestani wrestling specialist.
A highly anticipated rematch was slated for UFC 311 last year, with “Ahalkalakets” set to challenge then-lightweight champion Makhachev. However, Tsarukyan was forced to withdraw from the title bout at the eleventh hour due to a hernia. Renato Moicano stepped in as a last-minute replacement, proving to be an easy challenge for Makhachev, who submitted him in the first round.
Following four successful defenses of his lightweight title, Makhachev later vacated his championship to move up a weight class. He successfully captured the welterweight strap at UFC 322 by defeating Jack Della Maddalena.
Meanwhile, Tsarukyan has also continued his impressive run, notably facing Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar later that year and securing a submission win in the second round. Both fighters have upcoming engagements: Islam Makhachev is expected to make his first defense of the 170-pound title in August, while Arman Tsarukyan’s coach has confirmed a fight date and opponent are set for him, with an official announcement anticipated soon.
Despite the current unlikelihood of an immediate rematch, Arman Tsarukyan recently reiterated his firm belief in his ability to knock out Makhachev. During a recent interview with M Hassan Yosufi, “Ahalkalakets” acknowledged Makhachev as the toughest opponent he has ever faced, praising the pound-for-pound king for his exceptional skill set and arsenal. He then confidently stated: “I’ll just knock him [Islam Makhachev] out next time.”
