Islam Makhachev believes Arman Tsarukyan deserves a UFC lightweight title shot despite current scheduling challenges, as Tsarukyan awaits his opportunity amid other high-profile fights.
Islam Makhachev knows firsthand just how talented Arman Tsarukyan is. He believes Tsarukyan deserves a shot at the UFC lightweight title.
The UFC’s 2026 campaign kicks off with a bang. On January 24, UFC 242 features two title fights: Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight belt, and Kayla Harrison defending her bantamweight title against Amanda Nunes. But it’s the Gaethje vs. Pimblett matchup that’s turning heads.
Why? Because Ilia Topuria, the undisputed 155-pound champ, is taking a break until April. Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 1 contender, is sidelined.
Tsarukyan was set to fight Makhachev at UFC 311 in January. Unfortunately, he had to withdraw due to a back injury. Despite a dominant win over Dan Hooker in November, a title shot seems distant.
In an interview with Red Corner MMA, Makhachev spoke up for Tsarukyan. “The organization may not like it, but they make fights I don’t understand,” he said.
Makhachev added, “Arman should have gotten the title shot. But let’s be honest, he’s not fighting anytime soon.”
It’s tough for Tsarukyan. The winner of Pimblett vs. Gaethje will face Topuria, meaning another year of waiting for Arman.
Makhachev, once the lightweight champ, isn’t focused on that division now. He defended the 155-pound belt four times before moving to welterweight, where he defeated Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322.
Reflecting on his journey, Makhachev recalls the hurdles he faced. He had to wait, just like Tsarukyan might have to now.
“I had a 10-fight winning streak before my title shot,” Makhachev noted. “Arman should probably wait a bit and be patient.”