I am the only one who can destroy Makhachev.

Top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan boldly claims he is the only fighter in the division capable of dethroning reigning champion Islam Makhachev. Their long-awaited rematch is set for the UFC 311 main event on January 18 in Inglewood, California, promising to be one of the most anticipated bouts of the year.

A Short-Notice Debut That Set the Stage

When Arman Tsarukyan stepped into the octagon for his debut in April 2019, he didn’t anticipate it would lead to a future championship showdown. Facing Makhachev on short notice, Tsarukyan suffered a unanimous decision loss. Reflecting on the moment, Tsarukyan recalled:

“When I fought last time in Russia, it wasn’t in the UFC. My manager told me, ‘You’re going to get in the UFC soon.’ Three weeks later, he called again: ‘You got the fight in the UFC.’ I said, ‘Okay,’ and signed the contract.”

The opponent? Islam Makhachev. Rather than shrinking from the challenge, Tsarukyan embraced it. At just 22 years old, he was determined to prove himself against one of the division’s most feared fighters.

The Rise of Two Titans

Makhachev climbed to the top, capturing the lightweight championship, while Tsarukyan carved his path to becoming a top contender. Their careers have been intertwined since that night in Russia, and now, almost five years later, Tsarukyan has his chance for redemption.

“This is the biggest dream of my life,” Tsarukyan said. “When I was young, UFC was super big for me. I thought it was impossible to get there. But when I started to fight, I understood that I’m a guy who could be champion.”

Since his debut, Tsarukyan has amassed an impressive record, earning victories over elite competition and showcasing his evolution as a fighter. His relentless pace, improved striking, and dominant grappling make him a genuine threat to anyone in the division.

The Fight That Proved His Worth

Tsarukyan’s UFC debut in Saint Petersburg, Russia, may not have ended in victory, but it earned ‘Fight of the Night’ honors, solidifying his reputation as a rising star. Now, the stakes are higher. On January 18, he’ll fight to avenge that loss and achieve his lifelong dream of becoming a UFC champion.

Debunking the Myth of Makhachev

Reflecting on their first fight, Tsarukyan doesn’t shy away from crediting Makhachev’s abilities but insists the champion isn’t as invincible as many believe.

“He’s not that good like people think,” Tsarukyan declared. “People think he’s unbeatable with crazy wrestling. But I took him down when I was just 22 years old.”

With improved skills, experience, and preparation, Tsarukyan is confident he can do more than just compete. He believes he can dominate.

“I’ve grown so much as a fighter since that night. My wrestling, my cardio, and my fight IQ are on a different level now,” Tsarukyan added, reinforcing his belief in a different outcome this time around.

“I’m the Only One Who Can Beat Him”

In a division stacked with talent, Tsarukyan sees himself as the sole obstacle to Makhachev’s continued reign.

“He’s the best in our division. But I think it’s just me who can beat him right now,” Tsarukyan said, leaving no room for doubt.

The rematch offers not only a chance at redemption but also the opportunity for Tsarukyan to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest lightweights of this era.

The Road to Glory

For Tsarukyan, this isn’t just a fight—it’s the culmination of years of dedication, grit, and belief in his potential. Fans worldwide eagerly await UFC 311, where one of the division’s most compelling rivalries will be renewed.

With the entire MMA community watching, Tsarukyan’s confidence, skill, and determination will be tested in the ultimate proving ground.