A. Tsarukyan in victory over Charles of the Bronx No. UFC 300. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc
Rising star at lightweight, Arman Tsarukyan found himself in the midst of the fury of Michael chandler after refusing a fight for the category belt against Islam makhachev at UFC 302. The decision of the Armenian, who claimed he lacked preparation time for the fight scheduled for June 1st, paved the way for Dustin Poirier in the fight for the title.
Unsatisfied with Tsarukyan's attitude, Chandler didn't mince words when criticizing the fighter. In an interview with The MMA Hour, the American declared that he would have 'accepted without hesitation' the invitation to be the next title challenger.
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“I really don't understand Arman's refusal. I would have accepted without hesitation. MMA is a dynamic sport, things change quickly. On June 1st, we will see the fight for the lightweight belt, but a few weeks later, we will be able to see a new name in the fight for the title”, said the American.
At just 26 years old and on the rise in the category, the Armenian found himself faced with a unique opportunity to compete for the title in a short space of time after his victory over Charles of the Bronx No. UFC 300. For Chandler, the Armenian's decision may have put his position as one of the main candidates for the belt at risk.
Previously placed fourth, Tsarukyan left behind Dustin poirier, Justin gaethje and, of course, himself Charles of the Bronx to become the first name below the champion Islam makhachev in the division. In his career, there are 22 triumphs and three setbacks.
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