Charles Oliveira's executioner assures that there is no problem between him and the UFC and shows optimism: 'They want me to be champion'

Tsarukyan promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

This Saturday (22), Arman Tsarukyan will finally be seen in the octagon again. Without competing since April 2024, when he defeated Charles do Bronx , the Armenian will headline UFC Qatar against Dan Hooker . Dreaming of the chance to fight for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg), the athlete, after a turbulent period, guaranteed that the relationship with the biggest MMA organization in the world has returned to normal.

Contrary to what some fans think, Tsarukyan assures that there is no problem between him and the UFC's top brass. The relationship between the parties became strained in January when the Armenian had to withdraw from the highly anticipated rematch against Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title, one day before the fight due to an injury, being replaced by Renato Moicano , who didn't last a round.

See too

Ian Garry disapproves of Carlos Prates' rise in the welterweight rankings and makes a bold promise in the UFC.

Bad news! Dana White bans Jon Jones from returning to fight in the UFC at the White House and reveals his disappointment.

New rivalry! Undefeated giant taunts UFC champion Islam Makhachev: 'He doesn't know how to knock out opponents'

Visibly irritated by what had happened, Dana White made it clear that the athlete would have to rebuild his career in the division. After months on the sidelines, Tsarukyan downplayed the controversy and made a point of thanking the company for the opportunity to headline an event against a worthy opponent. To repay the UFC's investment, the Armenian promised a great performance against Hooker.

“The UFC wants to turn me into a champion because they put me in the main event and gave me a good fighter. The UFC is trying to turn me into a star to fight for the belt and treats me very well. They gave me a new contract and everything is going well. My relationship remains the same,” said the top lightweight in an interview with the YouTube channel 'Shak MMA'.

Professionalism

Aware that Dana White was disappointed with the incident at UFC 311 , Arman Tsarukyan tried to make amends. In June, the Armenian was the immediate reserve for the vacant lightweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira , which was won by the former, and he fulfilled his obligation by making weight. In fact, the athlete was praised by the organization's president for his commitment.

Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.