Tsarukyan Questions Makhachev

If the stakes weren’t already high for a potential rematch between Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev, the featherweight prospect just turned up the heat. By firing shots at the current UFC lightweight champion’s grappling pedigree, Tsarukyan has added some spicy seasoning to an already simmering pot of rivalry. In a recent interview, Tsarukyan boldly questioned whether Makhachev’s dominant wrestling is all that it’s hyped up to be.

The question now looms large over the division: Is the heir to Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s throne as dominant as he claims to be, or is Tsarukyan planting seeds of doubt to lure the champion into battle once again? Let’s dive into the fight math, history, and context behind Tsarukyan’s daring remarks.

The Origins of the Rivalry

To truly understand why Arman Tsarukyan’s words carry weight, we need to rewind to 2019. At the time, Tsarukyan was making his UFC debut, and who better to welcome him to the big leagues than Islam Makhachev? The two clashed at UFC Fight Night 149, with Makhachev earning a unanimous decision victory.

“That fight was insanely close, and Arman showed from the get-go that he can hang with the best,” MMA analyst John Gooden once said. “A rematch makes all kinds of sense with how much he’s improved since then.”

While the record books show a win for Makhachev, the fight was anything but lopsided. In fact, it showcased Tsarukyan’s rare ability to force the Dagestani wrestler into his most competitive grappling exchanges to date. Fast forward to 2024, and Tsarukyan has grown into a certified top contender, riding an impressive streak of wins while refining every facet of his fight game.

“Wrestling Not as Good as People Think”

In his recent remarks, Tsarukyan didn’t hold back in assessing Makhachev’s vaunted wrestling skillset. Speaking to MMA Junkie, Tsarukyan made a bold claim:

“When we fought, I didn’t feel like his wrestling was anything special. I think people see the dominance and assume he’s on another level, but it’s not like that. I’ve faced him, and I’ve evolved since then. His wrestling isn’t as good as people think.”

That’s a gutsy take from the Armenian fighter, especially given Makhachev’s reputation as one of the best grapplers in MMA history. However, there’s context to Tsarukyan’s skepticism. Over the years, Makhachev’s dominance has often relied more on strategic control and timing rather than explosive or technically overwhelming takedowns. Tsarukyan seems to believe that under rematch conditions, his own improvements would expose that supposed gap.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

For those wondering how the stats stack up, here’s a quick breakdown:

• Islam Makhachev: Known for a staggering 68% takedown accuracy and top-tier control time, he’s only suffered one loss in his career.
• Arman Tsarukyan: With a 78% takedown defense rate and high output on his feet, he’s a well-rounded fighter growing sharper with every outing.

Interestingly, both fighters boast a strong hybrid of grappling and striking, but where Makhachev controls opponents like a boa constrictor, Tsarukyan creates chaos with a relentless pace. This contrast in styles makes a rematch tantalizing, especially with Tsarukyan’s recent digs at Makhachev’s perceived limitations.

A Mind Game or Genuine Belief?

Trash talk is par for the course in MMA, but Tsarukyan’s comments have sparked debate about his true motivations. Is this a calculated attempt to needle Makhachev into granting him a title shot? Or does Tsarukyan really believe he’s better in the wrestling department?

Either way, the psychological warfare seems to be having some effect. Fans on social media jumped at the chance to dissect his remarks, with debates raging in the comment sections about whether Tsarukyan could indeed dethrone the Dagestani phenom. Many are already clamoring for the UFC to book this rematch sooner rather than later.

Will a Rematch Be Booked?

While UFC President Dana White has yet to comment on this ongoing feud, Tsarukyan’s push for a title shot has not gone unnoticed. With the lightweight division as competitive as ever, a rematch between these two would inject fireworks into an already thrilling scene. The storyline practically writes itself: An underdog looking for redemption against the reigning king of Dagestan.

As for Makhachev, he’s been relatively mum on the subject, opting not to respond directly to Tsarukyan’s comments. However, history suggests Makhachev is unlikely to shy away from a challenge, particularly one involving a fighter of Tsarukyan’s caliber.

The Last Word

At the end of the day, Arman Tsarukyan’s bold words have reignited a compelling rivalry in the UFC’s most storied weight class. By questioning Islam Makhachev’s grappling supremacy, he’s daring not only the champion but the entire MMA world to revisit the true hierarchy of lightweight dominance.

If the UFC books this rematchwhich fans and analysts alike agree is inevitableit could very well become *the* fight of the year in 2024. Until then, the tension between these two elite lightweights continues to boil over. Will Tsarukyan cash in on his promise, or will Makhachev remind everyone why they call him the lightweight king? Buckle up, fight fans. The road to this showdown is going to be wild.