Arman Tsarukyan, the Armenian lightweight contender, is brimming with confidence as he eyes a rematch with Islam Makhachev. The two fighters previously clashed in what was considered one of Makhachev’s toughest battles to date. Now, Tsarukyan vows to end Makhachev’s 14-fight winning streak if they meet again in the octagon.
Islam Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, successfully defended his title against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. Tsarukyan, fresh off a victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 299, was offered a chance to fight Makhachev for the belt. However, the short turnaround time prevented him from accepting the bout. Poirier stepped in and accepted the challenge.
Arman Tsarukyan’s Bold Prediction of Islam Makhachev
In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Tsarukyan didn’t mince words. He stated, “Yeah, [Makhachev is] definitely overhyped. They think they’re unbeatable. I don’t know why; they’re the same as us. Not the whole team, but Islam thinks no one can beat him. But I can definitely do that.”
“When Islam came to the weigh-ins [for UFC 302], everyone started booing. He wanted to fight in New York, but after this fight, I think he wants to go to Abu Dhabi because New York doesn’t like him… I’m going to beat him by KO, no doubt.”
Arman Tsarukyan says Islam Makhachev is "overhyped" and says he will knock Islam out 😳
"Yea [Islam is] definitely overhyped. They think they're unbeatable… Islam thinks no one can beat him but definitely I can do that…
When Islam came to the weigh-ins, everybody [was]… pic.twitter.com/Uoc3OW69q6
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 1, 2024
Islam Makhachev, known for his dominant grappling and ground game, welcomes Tsarukyan as his next challenge. Following his recent title victory, he expressed no qualms about facing his former opponent. His preference? A fight in November at Madison Square Garden, with a desire to fight in America more frequently. Makhachev believes his performance has won over American fans.
Tsarukyan, now 27 years old and armed with experience, is determined to make the rematch a different story. His promise to knock out Makhachev adds fuel to the fire, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown between two elite lightweights.
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