Arman
Tsarukyan is trying to maintain composure as his immediate
future hangs in the balance.
Advertisement
Tsarukyan was originally scheduled to challenge Islam
Makhachev for the undisputed lightweight title at UFC 311
earlier this year. However, Tsarukyan was forced out due to a back
injury a day before the fight and replaced by Renato
Carneiro, who went on to suffer a first-round submission loss
against Makhachev.
Dana White expressed his frustration with Tsarukyan and confirmed
that “Ahalkalakets” wouldn’t getting the next lightweight title
shot. There are also rumors that Tsarukyan pulled out on his own
accord, and the
UFC doctors didn’t suggest that he do so.
Currently at an unsure juncture about his immediate future,
Tsarukyan is trying to stay patient and focus on training. The
Russian also hinted that he was dealt an unfair hand, which he has
accepted as a part of life. Having not fought in over a year now,
Tsarukyan just wants to be ready when the call comes.
“Many have been asking when the fight is,” Tsarukyan wrote on
Instagram. “I am calm — training, focused and waiting for my
moment. Sports aren’t always about fair, but I believe if you put
in the work, don’t give up and stay true to yourself everything
will come. The key is to be ready when the time comes.”
Tsarukyan dropped a hard-fought decision against Makhachev in his
short-notice UFC debut in 2019. Tsarukyan has since only lost once
more in 10 outings and is riding a four-fight winning streak
against elite contenders. However, Tsarukyan has been adamant on
not accepting a rematch against Makhachev without a full camp.
Meanwhile, former featherweight champ Ilia
Topuria recently vacated his featherweight title and is
rallying for a lightweight title shot against Makhachev. Perennial
contender Justin
Gaethje is also on the cusp of yet another title shot, which
Makhachev is seemingly willing to offer him.