Following Islam Makhachev’s announcement that he might retire due to a torn muscle, the lightweight division is currently without a leader. He may not be able to defend his championship at UFC 308 due to an injury he suffered in his battle against Dustin Poirier.
“It’s a question of whether I’ll fight at UFC 308,” Makhachev said, expressing his personal fears. The fight has not yet been discussed. Now, I go to treatment every day. We’ll also watch how the hands proceed. Arman Tsarukyan’s hopes of competing in the competition as the end of the year approaches are also hampered by the injury, which puts Makhachev’s hopes of winning his second championship in jeopardy.
Arman Tsarukyan’s Provisional Title Call
One of the top competitors in the lightweight class, Arman Tsarukyan, reacted right away to the announcement. Not to be outdone, Tsarukyan personally petitioned UFC President Dana White, stating that he should have a chance at the title, even if it meant competing for a provisional one.
“I am the leading candidate. I’m simply saying, says [Makhachev]. How can one become successful in speaking?I emerged as the front-runner and demonstrated to the world that I was deserving of the title. Just the belt would be my next fight. Thus, an acting title could be used if [Makhachev] does not have time to regain his position. It will benefit me much more if he returns his hands.
Following Tsarukyan’s courageous remarks, supporters of the concept of an interim title battle united in the MMA world. Many think that Tsarukyan’s recent actions have given him a fighting chance to win gold, especially in light of Makhachev’s questionable redemption timeline.
Fans Want Tsarukyan vs. Oliveira
The MMA world is buzzing with speculation about who Tsarukyan should face if the interim title is indeed on the line. A name on everyone’s lips? Written by Charles Oliveira. The former champion is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters in the division, and fans are eager to see Oliveira and Tsarukyan reunite
Their first fight at UFC 300 was a nail-biter, with Tsarukyan defeating Oliveira in a split decision. In round three, both fighters showed off their skills, with Oliveira the Brazilian jiu-jitsu fighter struggling against Tsarukyan’s agility to strike. Fans were left divided, with many arguing that Oliveira would have won if the fight had been five.
One fan’s sentiment captured the general sentiment: “Arman vs Charles 2? The final battle was a split decision where really if you tried in sub tries for scoring, you could have gone either way.” This has led to a growing number of voices calling for five reunions, this time with a temporary belt on the line.
Potential Fight in Five Ways
The idea of a five-match rematch between Tsarukyan and Oliveira has gained traction among fans, especially with Makhachev potentially sidelined and the prospect of this interim title fight between these two fighters captivating the MMA community.
One fan summed up the expectations by saying, “Since Islam is fucked up, Arman vs Charles 2 for the interim belt”. Another added, “Fight Charles in round 5, for the interim belt”. The excitement is palpable, and many believe that given more time in the cage, Oliveira could turn the tables on Tsarukyan.
As Makhachev’s recovery becomes increasingly uncertain, the call for an interim match becomes even stronger. If Dana White and the UFC decide to move forward with this plan, the lightweight division could see one of the most exciting matchups ever. Oliveira vs. Oliveira Tsarukyan promises to be a solid second round clash that could redefine the division’s landscape.
