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.

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2 October

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1 October

UFC 322: Clash of the Titans in the Heart of New York – Maddalena vs. Makhachev

On November 15, 2025, the legendary Madison Square Garden arena in New York City will become the epicenter of the world of mixed martial arts. The UFC returns to the Big Apple with UFC 322, a main event that can, without exaggeration, be called historic.

1 October

Artur Beterbiev vs. Deon Nicholson: an epic battle at ANB Arena

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14 September

Knockout Comeback: Beterbiev to Fight Nicholson in Saudi Arabia!

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7 September

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29 August

UFC 322 Title Fight: Jack Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev at Madison Square Garden

Don't miss the exciting UFC 322 title fight at the legendary Madison Square Garden! Jack Maddalena and Islam Makhachev will fight for the title of the strongest. Find out who will become the new champion in the heart of New York.

6 August

Fight of the Year in Yekaterinburg: Savitsky vs. Geshlagi at RCC

On August 9, the long-awaited RCC fight: Savitsky vs. Geshlagi will take place at the RMK Martial Arts Academy arena in Yekaterinburg. Don't miss your chance to witness this exciting event in the world of professional boxing!

5 August

The Ring IV: Beterbiev vs. Nicholson at anb Arena - A Fight You Can't Miss!

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27 July

Bivol vs Beterbiev fight in Russia: third fight may take place in Moscow!

Boxing fans are delighted: the legendary trilogy Bivol - Beterbiev may take place in Russia. The exact location has not yet been confirmed, but rumors about the Russian stage are already exciting fans.