Arman Tsarukyan, a prominent figure in the UFC lightweight division, is making bold predictions about his path to the championship. With a record of 22 wins and 3 losses, Tsarukyan is on the brink of a title shot that could come as soon as early 2025. Many UFC fans and analysts share his belief that he will face off against current champion Islam Makhachev, whose record stands at an impressive 26 wins and just 1 loss, in January or February of the impending year. Tsarukyan’s confidence stems not just from his impressive track record but also from his unwavering determination to position himself at the top of his weight class.
Chandler’s Challenge and Oliveira’s Resurgence
Before Tsarukyan can step into the octagon with Makhachev, however, his eyes are also on the rematch between Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler, scheduled for UFC 309 on November 16. This fight is particularly relevant for Tsarukyan as he believes that Oliveira’s victory will set the stage for a much-anticipated rematch between himself and the former champion. In his previous encounter with Oliveira, Tsarukyan managed to secure a narrow split decision victory, making the prospect of a rematch exhilarating for both fighters.
Chandler, with a record of 23 wins and 8 losses, has had a tumultuous time in the division, and Tsarukyan has not shied away from expressing his disapproval of Chandler’s reluctance to fight while waiting for a high-profile bout with Conor McGregor. This disdain adds a layer of intrigue and tension to the rivalry that could boil over into a showdown after Chandler faces Oliveira.
A Potential Collision Course
Tsarukyan openly criticized Chandler, stating that he believes Chandler is an “easy fight” for Oliveira. His remarks underscore the budding rivalry and the anticipation for a potential matchup between himself and Chandler later down the line. “Michael Chandler is going to lose for sure,” Tsarukyan remarked. His convictions suggest that he views Oliveira as a significant threat to Chandler, thereby shaping the next steps in their careers within the UFC hierarchy.
The lightweight division is gaining momentum, and if everything goes according to plan, Tsarukyan envisions a scenario where he and Oliveira both emerge victorious. This, he argues, would undoubtedly lead to a rematch that UFC management would be eager to endorse, given the excitement surrounding their first encounter and the evolution of their careers since then.
In the ever-changing landscape of the UFC lightweight division, Arman Tsarukyan stands out as a fighter with both lofty aspirations and a clear vision for the future. The impending matchups between Tsarukyan, Makhachev, Oliveira, and Chandler promise to shape the lightweight division’s narrative in the coming months. The anticipation of rivalries, potential rematches, and championship bouts elevates the stakes, creating an engaging dynamic not just for the fighters involved, but also for fans eagerly awaiting what lies ahead in the thrilling world of mixed martial arts.