Arman Tsarukyan, a rising star in the UFC lightweight division, finds himself in a peculiar situation. Instead of preparing to face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 308, Tsarukyan must bide his time due to an injury sustained by the champion. Originally scheduled for a clash set to charge the atmosphere at the Etihad Arena, the bout has been postponed to early 2025, a delay that has left Tsarukyan feeling both frustrated and eager.
The Waiting Game: A Test of Patience
Tsarukyan’s eagerness is evident. With a record of 22 wins and 3 losses (22-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC), his drive and readiness are palpable, as he mentioned his preparation for a fight just days away. However, the timeline has shifted, pushing the anticipation of this critical matchup further into the new year. “I wish I could fight this weekend because I don’t want to waste my time,” he expressed, revealing the frustration of not competing more than once this year. The decision to postpone not only disrupts his fight rhythm but also affects his championship trajectory. He envisioned fighting now, resting briefly, and gearing up for a title defense later in the year.
As a guest fighter at the event, Tsarukyan nonetheless immerses himself in the buzz and excitement surrounding UFC 308, now headlined by Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway. However, that buzz is bittersweet; it leaves him wishing he were the one stepping into the octagon for the main event, where he believes he belongs.
The upcoming bout between Tsarukyan and Makhachev represents more than just a title shot; it’s a chance for redemption. Their initial encounter in April 2019 ended in a close decision victory for Makhachev. Tsarukyan took the fight on short notice, showcasing his skills and resilience, earning the Fight of the Night accolade in the process. Both fighters have evolved since then, and Tsarukyan asserts his belief that their rematch will be highly competitive. “You can’t say it’s going to be an easy fight. I want to finish him,” he stated confidently. His determination to secure a victory without leaving it to the judges demonstrates a mindset geared towards excellence, an essential trait for any athlete at this level.
Current discussions revolve around rankings and pound-for-pound considerations within the UFC. As per official rankings, Makhachev is listed as the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, a title UFC CEO Dana White contests, favoring Jon Jones instead. Tsarukyan aligns with White’s perspective, recognizing Jones as a living legend still performing at the highest level. “No, he doesn’t deserve it,” Tsarukyan remarked regarding Makhachev’s status, acknowledging the need for Jones to be at the forefront until he retires.
As Tsarukyan looks towards the future, speculated dates for their championship confrontation appear, with UFC 311 on January 18 or UFC 312 on February 12 as potential stages for this showdown. A victory would not only grant Tsarukyan the lightweight strap but also level their personal series at one win apiece. This raises the question: would a trilogy fight follow? Tsarukyan remains open to the idea, expressing, “I can fight with him three or four times. I just want the title.”
For Tsarukyan, the championship goal is paramount. The dream of holding the lightweight title drives him despite the setbacks. His readiness to engage in multiple encounters with Makhachev shows his commitment and belief in his skills. This mindset, coupled with his agility in the cage and desire for improvement, sets the stage for a compelling fight narrative ahead.
As he navigates the next few months, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, anticipating a clash that could very well define the trajectory of both fighters’ careers. Tsarukyan’s resolve and ambition ensure that, come fight night, he will be ready to seize the opportunity and add the UFC lightweight championship to his impressive record. The wait may be frustrating, but for him, the title is within reach—and that makes every moment spent preparing worthwhile.