Arman Tsarukyan is ranked second in the lightweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Arman Tsarukyan believes there was a possibility Khabib Nurmagomedov could have lost a fight during his career. Retired with 29 wins and no losses, the Russian made history in the UFC and ended his career as one of the greatest names in the sport's history, never experiencing the bitter taste of defeat. However, according to the 'Batman of MMA', a stroke of luck could have changed that scenario.
In a video published by the YouTube channel 'Vpiska', Tsarukyan highlighted that even Khabib's undefeated streak could have come to an end if the former champion had been hit by a powerful blow. According to the Armenian, a single well-placed punch capable of knocking the Russian to the canvas could have completely changed the course of his career.
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“If he had been hit, he could have been defeated. You never know. I'm talking about a lucky punch and him falling… Anything is possible in this life,” said Arman Tsarukyan.
Arman Tsarukyan is experiencing 'oblivion' in the UFC.
Arman Tsarukyan 's career took a significant turn after the Armenian fighter withdrew from his fight against Islam Makhachev with just one day's notice. Scheduled for the main event of UFC 311 , the American Top Team athlete claimed injury during his weigh-in preparation and was replaced by Renato Moicano for the event held in January 2025. Since then, he has faced a period of declining prominence in the organization.
Despite being ranked at the top of the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg), Tsarukyan saw the division advance without his presence in the most important fights. With Makhachev's move up to welterweight (up to 77 kg), the scenario seemed favorable, but the Armenian ended up out of the title fight at UFC 317 , when Ilia Topuria defeated Charles Oliveira and won the title.
Tsarukyan returned to the octagon in December 2025 and defeated Dan Hooker by submission, but the result was not enough to put him back on the path to the title. Meanwhile, Justin Gaethje gained ground, winning the interim title against Paddy Pimblett and later unifying the belt by defeating Topuria.
Now, with a scheduled duel against Mauricio Ruffy , Arman Tsarukyan hopes that a victory over the Brazilian could put him on a collision course with champion Justin Gaethje.
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