Former UFC lightweight title challenger Michael Chandler recently expressed his disagreement with Arman Tsarukyan’s decision to turn down a title fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. After Tsarukyan secured a split decision victory over former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300, he had the opportunity to challenge Makhachev for the lightweight belt on June 1. However, Tsarukyan opted to decline the fight, citing the need for a full training camp.
Michael Chandler, who currently holds the #7 spot in the lightweight division, questioned Tsarukyan’s choice, emphasizing the fast-paced nature of MMA and the importance of seizing opportunities. He stated, “Arman just went out there and beat Oliveira. Sounds like he’s going to be the number one contender next. But I also don’t understand why he didn’t take that fight. I would have taken it. Man, this sport moves fast. This sport moves very fast”.
Michael Chandler criticized Arman Tsarukyan’s decision to turn down a title fight against Islam Makhachev at #UFC302:
“I also don’t understand why [Arman] didn’t take that fight, I would’ve taken it.
The sport moves very fast. June 1st you’re gonna see the lightweight title… pic.twitter.com/bTH2O87g8J
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 18, 2024
Michael Chandler criticizes Arman Tsarukyan for not grabbing the right opportunities
Michael Chandler highlighted the upcoming lightweight title fight scheduled for June 1 and the subsequent high-profile matchup between himself and Conor McGregor. He pointed out that both of these fights could potentially overshadow the Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier bout, which Tsarukyan declined. In Chandler’s view, fighters must seize their opportunities promptly in the rapidly evolving landscape of mixed martial arts.
In Tsarukyan’s place, Dustin Poirier stepped up to face Makhachev at UFC 302 in Newark. Tsarukyan remains focused on eventually challenging the winner of the UFC 302 main event, hoping that the outcome of Chandler vs. McGregor at UFC 303 won’t impact his pursuit of the lightweight title.
The decision to turn down a title shot is always a calculated risk, and only time will tell if Tsarukyan’s choice was the right one. As the lightweight division continues to evolve, fighters must navigate the fast-moving currents of opportunity and competition to secure their place at the top.
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