Arman Tsarukyan Sets Sights on Lightweight Supremacy Following UFC Austin Showdown

Arman Tsarukyan is poised to headline UFC Austin on Saturday, locking horns with Beneil Dariush in what promises to be a captivating bout. The matchup holds significant weight for the division, as the victor is likely to find themselves just one win away from a coveted title shot. Currently standing as a substantial betting favorite for the Saturday showdown, Tsarukyan, ranked eighth in the lightweight division, is confident that a triumph over Beneil Dariush will solidify his claim as the best lightweight and position him as the number one contender at 155lbs. Expressing his excitement and confidence, Tsarukyan stated, "I feel amazing, so excited to be here in Austin. Can’t wait to be the best lightweight in the world and to be contender number one for the title," following the UFC Austin ceremonial weigh-ins.

Despite his belief in securing the top spot with a victory, Tsarukyan acknowledges that the current titleholder is Islam Makhachev. The two fighters clashed in Tsarukyan's UFC debut, a bout he took on short notice and lost by decision in a highly competitive encounter.

Ever since that initial face-off, Tsarukyan has been determined to secure a rematch with Islam Makhachev. A win over Beneil Dariush represents a crucial step toward realizing this goal and earning a shot at the title. However, the pathway to a rematch with Makhachev includes the champion overcoming challenges posed by Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje. Tsarukyan, boasting a record of 20-3, enters the octagon on the heels of a TKO victory over Joaquim Silva in June.

Prior to that, he secured a decision win against Damir Ismagulov, rebounding from a decision loss to Mateusz Gamrot in his first UFC main event. With a 7-2 record inside the UFC, Tsarukyan has notable victories over fighters such as Olivier Aubin-Mercier, Matt Frevola, and David Ramos, showcasing his credentials as a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division.