Arman Tsarukyan, after missing a UFC title shot against Islam Makhachev, stays active in grappling, facing Patricky Pitbull at ADXC in Russia, where Pitbull aims for a UFC opportunity with a strong performance.
Top-ranked lightweight Arman Tsarukyan had his sights set on UFC gold after a planned victory over Charles Oliveira in April 2024. However, a setback in January when he was forced out of a title clash with then-champion Islam Makhachev pushed him down the ranks.
Staying active, Tsarukyan defeated Makkasharip Zaynukov in a lackluster match earlier this month. Now, he’s set to face Patricky Pitbull at ADXC in Russia. The Brazilian sees this as a chance to elevate his own MMA career.
Headlining ADXC 10, Pitbull vs. Tsarukyan is a catchweight bout at 176 pounds, featuring five three-minute rounds on May 31 in Moscow. A statement win could potentially catch the UFC’s attention for Pitbull.
“I believe so. Nothing is impossible,” Pitbull told MMA Fighting about the possibility of signing with the UFC. “It’s a great opportunity for me to put on a good performance and bring more eyeballs.”
Pitbull is renowned for his knockout power in Bellator, with 11 of his 16 wins coming by knockout. He’s also tasted success in RIZIN, finishing current 155-pound champion Roberto Satoshi. Yet, he’s on a three-fight losing streak against Alexander Shabliy, Clay Collard, and Bruno Miranda.
Despite not winning by submission in 15 years, Pitbull might break that streak at ADXC, as striking isn’t allowed. He had to adjust his game plan last minute after learning leg attacks were prohibited per UFC’s request.
“If he makes a mistake, I’ll catch his neck,” Pitbull said. “I’ll frustrate him, and when he shoots from a distance, I’ll attack his neck and take his back with quick jiu-jitsu berimbolo.”
“He’s shown more grappling in his MMA fights than in his last grappling Karate Combat match,” Pitbull continued. “In the Oliveira fight, he showed good guillotine and arm-triangle choke defense. He’s tough and very durable.”
Pitbull hopes a win at ADXC reignites his MMA career, especially after signing with Global Fight League and seeing it crumble before its debut. He remains optimistic about a UFC offer but is also considering a return to Japan with RIZIN.
“I’m already in talks with people in Japan,” said Pitbull, who has a strong following there after defeating the champion. “It’s another great opportunity to go there and show my best. Who knows, maybe fight for the belt in the future.”