Arman Tsarukyan Has No Doubt He Would Defeat Islam Makhachev in a Rematch
by FARUK IMAMOVIC | VIEW 444
When Arman Tsarukyan first stepped into the Octagon against Islam Makhachev in April 2019, he could hardly have known that he was fighting a future UFC lightweight champion. Fast forward a few years and Makhachev has lived up to that potential, while Tsarukyan himself has steadily climbed to the pinnacle of his category.
Both athletes have since undergone substantial improvements in their skill sets. As such, one can't help but wonder what a contest between the two could offer today. This is precisely the prospect that has been on Tsarukyan’s mind recently, with the up-and-coming fighter throwing a challenge for a rematch.
Tsarukyan’s Conviction: A Dream Match to Topple Makhachev
“I am the only one who can beat him in our division,” Tsarukyan told Lowkick MMA, revealing his conviction to unseat Makhachev. “It’s my dream fight.
All my focus is to be a champion. That’s why I called him out. Maybe next year we’ll fight each other. I want to see my improvements. I want to see my skills. That fight, I think, would be the most competitive one for me”.
Tsarukyan, undeterred by the prospect of confronting a reigning champion, has a game plan in place. He believes his striking prowess can neutralize Makhachev's wrestling, and gain him the upper hand in standup combat. “I think I’m going to defend his wrestling and beat him in the standup,” Tsarukyan said.
“I believe my striking is better, my kicks, my boxing. He has a good clinich, but I think my footwork, my kicks and my boxing are much superior. He has good things in striking too. We’ve got to be careful. I know how I can beat him and I want to show it to everybody.
It’s going to be a tough fight, but I believe in myself and I’ll go there just for the win”.
A Long-Awaited Rematch: Will Tsarukyan get his Chance?
A rematch between Tsarukyan and Makhachev, four years after their first encounter, would undeniably be a highly anticipated event.
However, Tsarukyan would likely need another significant win to secure a shot at the title.
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