Arman Tsarukyan: The Next Big Thing in the UFC Lightweight Division?
Arman Tsarukyan is a rising star in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight division, and his potential as a contender is a topic of much debate. With the division's current landscape in flux, Tsarukyan finds himself in a unique position, as the odd man out in the title picture. While Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett battle for an interim title, and reigning champion Ilia Topuria deals with personal issues, Tsarukyan's future remains uncertain.
Daniel Cormier, a former UFC champion and current commentator, believes that Tsarukyan is the toughest challenge awaiting Topuria. He argues that a fight between the two would determine the best lightweight in the world, stating, 'This guy might just be the best lightweight in the world. Since Islam's gone, he's really good. He's big, strong, and physically imposing.'
Tsarukyan's recent victories over Dan Hooker, Charles Oliveira, and Beneil Dariush have solidified his status as a top contender. However, his path to the title has been riddled with obstacles. Initially, he was scheduled to face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight belt, but an injury during fight week forced the UFC to make a last-minute change, resulting in a loss of opportunity for Tsarukyan.
Dana White, the UFC CEO, stated that Tsarukyan 'blew his opportunity' and would have to work his way back to title contention. Despite this setback, Tsarukyan's recent win over Hooker in November was a step in the right direction. However, White's comments suggest that Tsarukyan still has more work to do before he is considered for another title fight.
Cormier, however, disagrees with White's assessment, questioning why Tsarukyan isn't fighting for a title. He speculates that there may be behind-the-scenes conversations that are shaping Tsarukyan's path, and he wonders why the fighter hasn't been more vocal about his opportunity. Cormier concludes, 'I don't know what the conversations are, but it seems like Arman is accepting it for what it is.'
The future of Tsarukyan's career remains uncertain, but his potential as a top contender in the lightweight division is undeniable. With his recent victories and Cormier's high praise, the stage is set for a potential showdown that could shape the division's future.
