UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan stepped into the Karate Combat pit in Dubai on Friday, competing in a grappling match rather than an MMA fight. He faced Makkasharip Zaynukov of Dagestan.
Tsarukyan initiated the action, attempting an early single leg takedown in the corner of the pit, but Zaynukov defended effectively. Neither fighter managed to secure a takedown for the rest of the first round, and the second round unfolded similarly. Late in round two, Tsarukyan tried another single leg attempt; Zaynukov countered, but the UFC fighter quickly regained his footing.
Based on the judges` unanimous scoring, Tsarukyan held the advantage after two rounds, eliminating the need for a third. Consequently, Tsarukyan was awarded a unanimous decision victory. Following the bout, he offered an apology for what many perceived as a `boring` or `lackluster` performance.
Speaking after the win, Tsarukyan commented, “I knew this fight was gonna be like this, boring. When two guys they know freestyle wrestling it is difficult to takedown. If you bring an MMA fighter versus a jiu-jitsu guy, there is gonna be more ground game, you know? Sorry it was not too good for fans, but I hope you enjoyed it.”
He added, “I haven’t fought in one year, and that’s why I came and wrestled today. My opponent was a very hard guy. Nobody knows him a lot because he fights in Russia, but he’s from a strong team and was tough.”
Building on his victory over an opponent from Islam Makhachev`s team, Tsarukyan issued a challenge. He stated,
“Can’t wait for the next one. I need one more guy from Khabib’s team. Let’s do this again.”
The UFC has not yet announced Arman Tsarukyan`s next opponent or fight date within the promotion. He was previously scheduled for a rematch against Islam Makhachev for the 155-pound championship in January but had to withdraw just hours before the weigh-ins due to illness.
With nine victories in his 11 UFC appearances, Tsarukyan is currently on a four-fight winning streak, having defeated notable opponents such as Charles Oliveira, Beneil Dariush, Joaquim Silva, and Damir Ismagulov.
Makkasharip Zaynukov holds a recent record of 11 wins in his last 12 MMA fights, including a decision victory over Dedrek Sanders in his PFL debut last October, which brought his overall MMA record to 16-4.
