Tsarukyan Achieves Victory in Grappling Debut in Dubai

UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has transitioned his skills, recently securing a win in professional grappling at Karate Combat 54, despite a break from Octagon appearances.

The 28-year-old fighter achieved a unanimous decision against Makasharip Zaynukov, an associate of former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

The match in Dubai was Tsarukyan’s first showing since his UFC 300 triumph over Charles Oliveira last year.

This event also marked his return to competition after he had to withdraw from UFC 311, where he was initially slated to face UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev in a rematch.

Despite the prior injury, Tsarukyan expressed his interest in a future match with Makhachev during the post-fight interview at KC 54.

Following his victory over Zaynukov using technical grappling, Tsarukyan subtly challenged Makhachev and his Dagestani team.

“I need one more guy from Khabib’s team,” Tsarukyan stated regarding his future plans, underscoring his focus on Makhachev.

Tsarukyan and Makhachev previously fought in 2019, where Makhachev secured a unanimous decision victory.

Since then, Tsarukyan has improved his standing, securing important wins and becoming a leading contender in the UFC’s lightweight division.

While his withdrawal from UFC 311 paused his title aspirations, his win over Zaynukov maintains his progress, and his comments to Makhachev highlight that their rivalry is ongoing.

With UFC matchmakers expected to arrange another fight for Tsarukyan against a top lightweight before a title rematch, fans anticipate his return later in the year.

Currently, Tsarukyan has issued a challenge, indicating that his pursuit of Makhachev is still a priority.