Arman Tsarukyan: Islam Makhachev was only lightweight who could outwrestle him
MMA Fighting
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Arman Tsarukyan has expressed his respect for Islam Makhachev, acknowledging that he was the only lightweight fighter who could outwrestle him. In 2019, Tsarukyan made his UFC debut against Makhachev at UFC St. Petersburg, where he lost a unanimous decision. The two were set to rematch for the lightweight title at UFC 311 in 2022, but Tsarukyan was forced off the card due to a last-minute injury. Following this, Makhachev successfully defended his title against Renato Moicano and moved up to the welterweight division (170 pounds). Now that Makhachev has vacated the lightweight division, Tsarukyan believes he is unmatched in terms of wrestling ability at 155 pounds.
Tsarukyan’s confidence stems from his grappling skills, which he demonstrated with several submission wins over the past year. He also tech-falled Lance Palmer, a four-time NCAA Division I All-America wrestler, at RAF 5 in January. Tsarukyan praised Makhachev for his calm demeanor and efficiency in conserving energy during fights, qualities that made him such a formidable opponent. With Makhachev no longer in the lightweight division, Tsarukyan sees an opportunity to establish himself as the top wrestler in the division.
This development is significant for sports fans interested in mixed martial arts (MMA), as it highlights the evolving dynamics of the lightweight division and the rising confidence of Arman Tsarukyan. As one of the premier grapplers in the UFC, Tsarukyan’s ability to dominate opponents through wrestling could make him a major contender in future matchups. His recent performance against Palmer further solidifies his reputation as a dominant force on the mat, showcasing his technical prowess and adaptability in high-stakes fights.
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Originally published on MMA Fighting on 2/14/2026