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.

More news

15 June

UFC Fight Night in Belgrade: The epicenter of world MMA in Belgrade Arena

Welcome to UFC Fight Night in Belgrade!

4 June

Boxing Night in Riyadh: Alvarez vs. Mbilly at NSA Arena

On September 12th, a spectacular night of boxing will take place at the NBA Arena in Riyadh. Saul "Canelo" Alvarez will face undefeated Christian Mbilly. Find out who will emerge victorious in this exciting fight at the renovated arena!

2 June

TOP DOG 42 in St. Petersburg: A Historic Tournament at the World's Largest Arena

On June 6, the SKA Arena in St. Petersburg will host the unique TOP DOG 42 tournament. Legends and newcomers to the world of fist fighting will clash in over 20 bouts. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event!

1 June

An Epic Showdown in Abu Dhabi: Ankalaev vs. Rountree at UFC Fight Nights

Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled evening! Magomed Ankalaev and Khalil Rountree will battle for victory at UFC Fight Nights in Abu Dhabi. Find out who will emerge victorious in this exciting MMA bout.

16 May

UFC 329: Epic McGregor vs. Holloway Clash in Las Vegas

Conor McGregor and Max Holloway will collide in a thrilling fight. Find out who will emerge victorious in this legendary rivalry.

1 May

UFC 329: Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Garry – Title Fight in Las Vegas

UFC 329: Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Garry at T-Mobile Arena. A title fight that will determine the division's strongest.

29 April

The historic UFC Fight Night Belgrade tournament awaits you

For the first time in Serbia! On August 1st, Stark Arena will host UFC Fight Night. Expected fights include stars like Uroš Medić and Aleksandar Rakić. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable mixed martial arts event!

27 April

Historic UFC Freedom 250 Fight on the White House South Lawn: Topuria vs. Gaethje

Don't miss this unique MMA event! UFC Freedom 250 will take place on the White House South Lawn, where Iliya Topuria and Justin Gaethje will meet. This historic showdown promises to be the highlight of the year.

20 April

UFC Freedom 250: A Historic Fight on the South Lawn of the White House

For the first time in history, UFC Freedom 250 will take place on the South Lawn of the White House. Don't miss the exciting fight between Iliya Topuria and Justin Gaethje. This event promises to be legendary in the world of mixed martial arts!

1 April

Boxing Night in Giza: Usyk vs. Verhoeven – a Historic Event at a Legendary Arena

Giza will host an unforgettable boxing night: Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven. Learn how the kickboxing legend will make his professional boxing debut and fight for the WBC title. Don't miss this unique event!