The lightweight division in the UFC saw a significant shakeup when Islam Makhachev vacated his title to explore opportunities in the welterweight category. This departure created an opening that Ilia Topuria seized by defeating former champion Charles Oliveira decisively, claiming the vacant lightweight belt. Meanwhile, contenders like Arman Tsarukyan are intensifying their campaigns to secure a coveted title shot, with Tsarukyan positioning himself as one of the leading prospects. His anticipation for an Islam Makhachev rematch remains a critical point in his career aspirations.
Tsarukyan, widely regarded as a deserving challenger, has not yet locked in his next fight but has expressed unwavering confidence in his ability to topple Topuria when given the opportunity. In recent comments, the Armenian fighter detailed his intentions to settle unfinished business with Makhachev before turning his full attention to the reigning champion.
I’m gonna defend as much as possible. I wanna be the greatest fighter in the world. I know how I work, how I dedicate for this sport. I know I gotta be the best. In this sport because I love it so much. I will be waiting for him (Makhachev) at 155.Â
—Arman Tsarukyan via The JAXXON Podcast
Interrupted Matchup and Its Consequences for Tsarukyan’s Title Hopes
Tsarukyan was originally slated to face Islam Makhachev at UFC 311, but a sudden back injury forced him to withdraw. Makhachev then fought a late replacement, Renato Moicano, successfully defending his lightweight championship by submission. Following this, UFC President Dana White decided that Tsarukyan would need to prove himself again to earn another shot at the title.
Arman Tsarukyan says he’ll wait for Islam Makhachev at lightweight after becoming champion.”I wanna defend as much as possible. I wanna be the greatest fighter in the world because I know how I work, how I dedicate for this sport. I love it so much and I give myself to this…
—Arman Tsarukyan via Red Corner MMA tweet
Since then, Tsarukyan has tried to secure fights against top contenders such as Charles Oliveira but has been unable to finalize any matchups, leaving him inactive. Despite this, he has remained prepared and focused, maintaining peak readiness for when the next title opportunity arises.
Meanwhile, Tsarukyan has launched numerous provocations toward Ilia Topuria, using memes and social media posts in an effort to force the champion’s hand. However, Dana White has emphasized that Tsarukyan must take at least one more fight before he can challenge for the belt. This impasse has left fans wondering whether Tsarukyan’s trash talk will ever translate into a title bout.
Tsarukyan’s Sharp Criticism of Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria
Following Topuria’s commanding victory to become champion, he quickly drew attention from top contenders. His scheduled face-off against Paddy Pimblett has heightened anticipation, as the UFC is clearly interested in maximizing pay-per-view and global reach. Yet, Topuria’s refusal to accept Tsarukyan’s repeated calls for a fight has drawn criticism from supporters and observers alike.
Fans and analysts have compared Topuria’s avoidance of Tsarukyan to former heavyweight champion Jon Jones’s reluctance to fight Tom Aspinall before Jones’s retirement. UFC veteran Chael Sonnen recently discussed the possibility of Topuria eventually facing Tsarukyan. In response, Tsarukyan expressed hope for that matchup while underscoring the challenge he would pose to the champion.
I hope so. I hope so. I want to fight for the title. I’ve been waiting for so long. They didn’t tell anything yet to me. So I’m still waiting, training, and trying to call out Ilia as much as possible. He (Topuria) knows that, and he wants to get an easy fight with Paddy [Pimblett] or [Justin] Gaethje or someone. Just make money, and do the fans. But with me, it’s going to be hard for him.
—Arman Tsarukyan via Cageside Press
Tsarukyan has openly disparaged Topuria’s capabilities, ridiculing the champion’s wrestling and overall fighting style. He has gone as far as calling Topuria an Alibaba version of Conor McGregor, suggesting that the champion leans more on hype than on genuine skill. Despite this, the lightweight division watches closely, eager to see if Tsarukyan will finally secure the title shot he has long awaited.
What Lies Ahead for Tsarukyan and the Lightweight Division
Arman Tsarukyan’s steadfast dedication to waiting for Islam Makhachev reflects his desire to settle their long-standing rivalry, even as he prepares for a difficult encounter with Ilia Topuria. With Dana White indicating the need for another fight before any title challenge, Tsarukyan faces the complex task of balancing his impatience with the UFC’s regulations. The evolving lightweight division—now shaped by Topuria’s rise and Makhachev’s exit—sets the stage for intense competition and intriguing matchups in the near future.
Tsarukyan’s public calls and pointed criticisms keep the spotlight on his pursuit of championship gold, maintaining fan interest and pressure on UFC decision-makers. Whether this tension leads to a showdown with Topuria or another stepping stone fight, the outcome will significantly influence the division’s dynamics and its championship narrative.