Analyst and former UFC fighter Chael Sonnen is surprised that Tsarukyan refused to fight Makhachev

However, as it became known for certain, Tsarukyan refused the rematch. Makhachev defeated Dustin Poirier (30-9) by submission in the fifth round. The fight took place on June 1 at UFC 302 at the Prudential Center in New Jersey, USA.

The fight between Makhachev and Tsarukyan took place five years ago, but fans of mixed martial arts, of course, remember this bright uncompromising fight. Tsarukyan, who was defeated at the time, completely disagreed with the judges' decision and, not hesitating to use offensive language towards Makhachev, furiously demanded "a continuation of the party". 

In April 2019, Tsarukyan made his UFC debut at the promotion's tournament in St. Petersburg. At that time, he was not really known to anyone, but full of ambition. Makhachev, who was not yet participating in the main title race, went out to fight the newcomer. After an abundance of clinches and a fierce fight, Islam prevailed over Arman. Makhachev and Tsarukyan then took five thousand American greenbacks for the "Best Fight of the Night". 

In five years, Makhachev became a champion, and Tsarukyan became the number one in the division. Islam currently leads the P4P rating, having long been recognized as the strongest fighter in the lightweight division. Tsarukyan has also gained sporting authority and is a worthy competitor to Islam, demanding a rematch at UFC 308. Offended by his opponent's bold statements, Makhachev promised to beat him again. Recently, Tsarukyan has been entering the octagon as an Armenian citizen, but, in fact, his upcoming fight with Makhachev was perceived as a hot Russian derby. Fans of the tournament were almost certain that UFC 308 would be opened by Tsarukyan and Makhachev. But, alas, for some reason the tournament management decided to cancel the fight.