“I’ve invested everything into this—my time, my money, my health—doing whatever it takes to make this happen.” Arman Tsarukyan said as he reflected on his journey earlier this year when he was just a week out from his first title shot against reigning 155lbs champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 311. However, a last-minute back injury incurred during the weight cut shattered his title aspirations, forcing him to drop out of the bout.
Moreover, Dana White confirmed that the Armenian would need to return to the “drawing board” to earn another title shot, offering his final judgment and adding, “We’ll see how this plays out for him next year.” Since then, perennial potential opponents, such as Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira have also staked their claim at the Dagestani.
However, Tsarukyan is determined not to let anyone take his place in the fight against Islam Makhachev. Recently, #1 ranked 155fer made his position clear on X, stating, “I’m the true #1 contender, ready to prove it against anyone. But how can I do that when everyone else is just looking for a paper fight? Charles, Justin—either sit and wait, or step up and earn it.”
I’m the true #1 contender, ready to prove it against anyone. But how am I supposed to do that when everyone else just wants to fight on paper? Charles, Justin – you can sit and wait, or you can step up and earn it.
— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) March 22, 2025
(More to follow)
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