Arman Tsarukyan Sets Sights on Lightweight Title and Makhachev's Defense Record

Arman Tsarukyan is focused on achieving the UFC lightweight title while aiming to break Islam Makhachev's record of four successful title defenses. He plans to accomplish this by winning five defenses in total.

Tsarukyan is scheduled to compete against Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331 on September 19. This match marks his return to the octagon following a submission victory over Dan Hooker last November. A win in this fight could secure him a title shot against Justin Gaethje.

Makhachev, who won the lightweight title in 2022, defended it four times before moving up to welterweight, where he has also claimed a title. Tsarukyan had initially been set to challenge Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 311 in January 2025 but had to withdraw due to a back injury. With 26 professional fights at the age of 29, Tsarukyan plans to evaluate his future in the sport after reaching 33 fights.