The scenario at the top of the lightweight table seems to be getting intense. Following Islam Makhachev’s victory over Renato Moicano, several fighters called out the champion. And one among them was the former lightweight champion, Charles Oliveira. Immediately after Makhachev’s victory, Oliveira asked the Dagestani to accept a matchup with him next. However, such a callout seems to have angered Arman Tsarukyan.
Tsarukyan was supposed to headline UFC 311 against Makhachev. Unfortunately, owing to a last minute injury, the Armenian had to withdraw. But despite the setback, it looks like Tsarukyan is not ready to give up his place easily. Following Oliveira’s callout, Tsarukyan had a stern statement to make.
“The number one contender has a name, and it’s Arman Tsarukyan… I’m ready and open. Don’t be afraid to say my name. I promise, I won’t hit too hard,” said Tsarukyan via Instagram.
Arman Tsarukyan calls out Charles Oliveira:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 24, 2025
"The number one contender has a name, and it's Arman Tsarukyan… I'm ready and open. Don't be afraid to say my name. I promise, I won't hit too hard." 👀
(via IG / @ArmanUfc) #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/ExwWoakr41
Now, while the Armenian is raring to go, he might have some bad news to swallow. As a matter of fact, Dana White said recently that Tsarukyan will have to start over again in order to earn a title shot. And this is where the Armenian has received support from Team Islam Makhachev.
Javier Mendez Extends His Support To Arman Tsarukyan
Islam Makhachev’s coach is sympathizing with Arman Tsarukyan. In a recent interaction with ‘Submission Radio’, Javier Mendez stated that he wants the UFC to give Tsarukyan another chance at the title. Mendez stated that he knew the feeling as the same situation took place earlier with Khabib Nurmagomedov.
“I feel bad for him because no fighter should have to go through what that poor guy did…He trained so hard for this, earned the right to fight for the title, deserving the right to fight for the title, and only be out because of an injury, not because of anything else. I hope the UFC gives him that opportunity,” Mendez stated.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MMA stories via Google! Follow Us
Thus, with multiple fighters calling out Islam Makhachev, things are getting pretty interesting. It will now be interesting to see how things pan out in the future and who gets the title shot in the long run.
Also Read: Arman Tsarukyan Out With Back Injury, Dana White Confirms Islam Makhachev vs. Renato Moicano
