When it comes to MMA legends, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s name often tops the list. The undefeated Dagestani grappler left an indelible mark on the sport. But what happens when fans and fighters compare him to his protege, Islam Makhachev? Well, that is exactly what Arman Tsarukyan did. The top lightweight contender recently shared his thoughts on the matter.
Tsarukyan is no stranger to facing tough opponents. He has squared off against Makhachev before, and he knows firsthand what it’s like to tangle with the current champ. So when he says there’s a difference between Makhachev and Prime Khabib, fans should probably listen.
“Islam is good everywhere, but it’s not that there is an aspect where you can’t outsmart him. At boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, and on the ground…Unlike Prime Khabib. He was so good at wrestling that it would’ve been really hard to beat him in that area. So you would’ve had to work on your wrestling defense and striking. It would have been pointless to try and outwrestle him,” said Tsarukyan via Red Corner MMA.
Tsarukyan didn’t pull any punches in his assessment. He praised Makhachev’s well-rounded skills but noted a crucial difference. The Armenian fighter painted a picture of Khabib Nurmagomedov as an unstoppable force. Especially when it came to wrestling, Khabib was in a league of his own.
Tsarukyan’s words carry extra weight, considering his own impressive record. He’s not just some armchair critic throwing out hot takes. But being compared to Nurmagomedov is no small feat. It’s like being compared to Michael Jordan in basketball. The fact that Makhachev is even in the conversation speaks volumes about his skills.
Arman Tsarukyan Puts Lightweights In Their Place After Trying To Get A Shot At The Champion
UFC’s lightweight division is buzzing with excitement and a touch of drama. At the center of it all is Arman Tsarukyan, the number one contender who’s not pulling any punches – verbally, that is. He earned his shot at the champion, Islam Makhachev, after beating Charles Oliveira. But there’s a snag in the works.
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Tsarukyan got himself into a bit of hot water at UFC 300. He found himself on the wrong side of the rules after an altercation with a fan. The result was a nine-month suspension and a hefty fine. This news got other contenders hyped to get after the belt. But Arman Tsarukyan is putting them in their place.
“I’m the one fighting for the title next. The rest of you can take a seat #AndNew”
Michael Chandler, ever the opportunist, has thrown his hat in the ring. Dustin Poirier, fresh off a loss to Makhachev, was also raising his hand. But Tsarukyan’s statement sure has put a stop to their advances. He most likely will fight for the title next.
Also Read: Michael Chandler Claps Back At Arman Tsarukyan After Criticism For Waiting On Conor McGregor
