Since his UFC debut, Arman Tsarukyan has announced his class. In his short-notice fight against Islam Makhachev, he gave the elite Lightweight a tougher fight than many more established foes. Though Ahalkalakets lost on that occasion, he has only improved since then, developing his kickboxing further and growing more comfortable in the Octagon, while waiting for a title bout against Islam Makhachev. Arman usually operates at an athletic edge over his opponents.

On the other hand, Khamzat Chimaev, also waiting for a title bout, is a grappling machine. He has incorporated striking and grappling into a unique, MMA-adapted wrestling style. Known for his ‘smash’ style, Khamzat overwhelms his opponents with his stamina and ability to stay dominant on the ground.

So when the two phenoms in their respective weight classes went against each other, some fireworks were expected. ‘Borz’ took on Tsarukyan during filming for Hype Reality 3, which has been branded as Russia’s answer to The Ultimate Fighter. They are coaching opposite one another on the show and took to the cage to show off their skills in a friendly grappling exchange.

Khamzat Chimaev makes easy work of Arman Tsarukyan

Khamzat Chimaev has quickly earned notoriety as one of the most dominant wrestlers in the UFC, and his skills on the mat are a big reason for his meteoric rise. With a background in freestyle wrestling, Chimaev’s ability to control his opponents is second to none. Whether it’s his takedown accuracy or his suffocating pressure, he can impose his will on anyone unfortunate enough to find themselves in his grasp.

And this time, 155lbs title challenger Arman Tsarukyan was at the receiving end of the Chechen Fighters’ skill set. The pair met in a submission-only clash on their reality show where Chimaev held the advantage from the get-go. Not only does ‘Borz’ have the size advantage but he is also extremely quick inside the Octagon.

MMA.PROS.PICK shared their video on their X account where the number one lightweight contender shared his game plan. He said, “I will try to defend myself, avoid getting choked because it’s just submission only. And because of this, I will just work as a second number. But if I get a chance to choke or grab the neck, I will take it.” 

However, the middleweight fighter was unfazed by all such claims and showed why he is one of the most feared in the division. During the video ‘Borz’ said, “Can’t argue he weighs less than me. In wrestling Arman himself knows our level. It was a surprise for me that Arman agreed to fight me on camera. I was sure that I would win and it happened.” Luckily for Tsarukyan, it was just friendly banter and the fight did not end with serious consequences. Interestingly, Tsarukyan gave Khamzat his due credit.

“Of course, I felt it [the power]. We had a fight, and it will also be included in the project. In addition to the fight, I felt his strength as well. He is very strong, powerful, and weighs about 100 kilograms,” Tsarukyan said of the undefeated Chechen. Maybe that’s why he has a plan for his upcoming fight against Islam, given their grappling heavy fighting style.

Tsarukyan is currently focused on his title fight with Islam Makhachev. Initially, reports suggested that the two elite 155fers would fight each other in Abu Dhabi in October. However, a hand injury to the Dagestani fighter delayed the fight much to the frustration of the fans. Recent reports and speculation suggest a new date at UFC 311 in 2025, which caused a lot of hype. And Tsarukyan wants Khamzat’s assistance for the fight.

“To be honest, he is there, and if there is an opportunity to train with him [Khamzat], it would be good since he is tall and can work in a left-handed stance. I will ask him to help work with me. Yes, if he doesn’t refuse, it would be good to train as sparring partners. But in general, his build is similar to Islam’s,” Tsarukyan had said in July. But is the fight actually happening? Let us find out.

Islam Makhachev’s manager gives an honest update about his next outing

Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan is a highly anticipated matchup that promises to showcase two of the best lightweights in the world. Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, has proven himself to be a master of control with his elite wrestling and suffocating top game. With a win, the Dagestani would further solidify his status as an all-timer.

While the fans are waiting to witness the fight it seems there has been no contract signed as of yet. In a recent post on Instagram, Red Corner MMA unveiled a startling revelation that might surprise many out there.  According to the report, “Islam Makhachev’s manager Rizvan Magomed says there are no contacts signed for the fight between his client and number one lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan. The fight between the two is believed to be aimed for January 18 at UFC 311, although no official announcements were made by the UFC.” 

Meanwhile, Tsarukyan’s manager, Sayat Abdrakhmanov is confident that the fight will definitely go down. This rematch holds high stakes for both fighters—Makhachev looking to cement his championship reign, and Tsarukyan eager to prove he’s evolved enough to take down one of the UFC’s most dominant champions.

Fans can expect a tactical, fast-paced battle that could define the future of the lightweight division. However, the big question is when will the UFC make the official announcement? Will the pair fight each other next year? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.