Arman Tsarukyan Aims for Knockout Victory Against Islam Makhachev in Rematch

Arman Tsarukyan, a prominent contender in the UFC lightweight division, has clearly stated his ambition to secure a knockout win over Islam Makhachev should they meet again. Their first encounter in 2019 marked Tsarukyan's UFC debut, where Makhachev ultimately claimed a unanimous decision victory after a hard-fought three-round contest. A highly anticipated rematch was scheduled for UFC 311 last year, with Tsarukyan poised to challenge the then-lightweight champion, Makhachev. However, Tsarukyan, known as “Ahalkalakets,” was unfortunately forced to withdraw from the title bout at the last minute due to a hernia. Renato Moicano stepped in as a late replacement but proved to be no match for Makhachev, who submitted him in the very first round.

Following four successful defenses of his lightweight championship, Makhachev opted to vacate his title and move up a weight class. He successfully captured the welterweight strap at UFC 322 by defeating Jack Della Maddalena.

Meanwhile, Tsarukyan returned to action later that year, facing Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar and earning a submission victory in the second round.

Looking ahead, Islam Makhachev is expected to make the first defense of his 170-pound title in August. Concurrently, Tsarukyan's coach has confirmed that a date and opponent for his next fight have been finalized, with an official announcement anticipated soon.

Arman Tsarukyan Promises Knockout in Potential Rematch

Despite the current unlikelihood of an immediate rematch between Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev, Tsarukyan recently reaffirmed his determination to knock out Makhachev. In a recent interview with M Hassan Yosufi, Tsarukyan candidly admitted that Makhachev remains the toughest opponent he has ever faced, praising the pound-for-pound king's superior skillset and comprehensive arsenal. He then asserted, "I'll just knock him [Islam Makhachev] out next time."