The highly anticipated showdown between Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev has reached a phase of uncertainty. After Makhachev’s injury, plans for the lightweight title rematch between the two former rivals have reached a stall. Amidst all this, Tsarukyan recently came out with some interesting information. Here is what happened:
Arman Tsarukyan recently sat down for a discussion on the Ushatayka YouTube channel. The Armenian revealed that there are ongoing discussions for a potential rematch with Islam Makhachev in December 2024, potentially at UFC 310.
The fight had to happen in October but it was re-scheduled. Now, we have talks about December… It depends on when he can return. If he can’t compete by spring, I think will make a fight for an interim title.
Arman Tsarukyan on the Ushatayka YouTube channel
This fight was originally scheduled for October but had to be postponed due to Makhachev’s unexpected injury. Tsarukyan mentioned that if Makhachev is unable to return by spring 2025, the UFC might consider setting up an interim lightweight title fight.
⚡️Arman Tsarukyan says that the fight with Islam Makhachev could take place in December – in the USA.
If Islam cannot return to the octagon before spring, then Arman is ready to accept a fight for the temporary title (for example, with Dan Hooker).
🎥 YT Ushatayka ▫️ pic.twitter.com/O2T8ymIbSL
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) August 26, 2024
This rematch is highly anticipated, given that Tsarukyan debuted against Makhachev in 2019. Ahalkalakets put up a strong performance against the Dagestani despite ultimately losing by unanimous decision. Fans and analysts are eager to see how both fighters have evolved since then.
Arman Tsarukyan will not submit an anti-bullying PSA despite UFC 300 controversy
Arman Tsarukyan may no longer have to complete an anti-bullying PSA as part of his suspension agreement. As per the decision by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) Tsarukyan was originally handed a nine-month suspension and a $25,000 fine.
He was provided with the option to reduce his suspension to six months if he completed the PSA. This would have made him eligible to fight again in time for a potential lightweight title shot in October 2024. However, with Makhachev’s injury, if the fight extends to December or beyond he would be out of suspension either way.
If my fight is scheduled for December, there’s no point.
Arman Tsarukyan on the Ushatayka YouTube channel
Islam Makhachev had ambitious plans for 2024, aiming to defend his title three times in a single year. His goal was to remain highly active and potentially face the top contenders in the lightweight division. Now, it will be interesting to see how long Makhachev stays in the lightweight division after his return, especially given his ambitions to move weight classes for a second UFC title.
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