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If Arman Tsarukyan wins the UFC lightweight title, he wants to go after one of Islam Makhachev’s records.

Tsarukyan is set for a pivotal clash against Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331, and his camp claims he’s been promised a title shot if he emerges victorious. The newly nicknamed “Batman” has long been considered the rightful No. 1 contender at 155 pounds by fans and pundits, but an emphatic performance on Sept. 19 might leave no doubt.

The No. 2-ranked lightweight on the Meta UFC and media panel rankings was scheduled to challenge Makhachev for the gold in early 2025, but he was pulled hours before the weigh-ins due to an injury. This would’ve been a rematch, as Makhachev defeated Tsarukyan via unanimous decision in their competitive 2019 bout. Makhachev has since moved up to become the welterweight champion, while some believe Tsarukyan is only now getting out of the UFC doghouse.

Appearing on Paramount+’s “Deep Waters,” Tsarukyan dismissed the idea of chasing a rematch with Makhachev at 170 pounds. Tsarukyan would rather set a new record at lightweight (h/t MMAFighting).

“Not yet,” Tsarukyan said. “At least five title defenses. … I want to beat the record in the lightweight division. So Islam had four defenses, so I want to make five and then we’ll see or I retire or go up to 170, because I’ve got to gain weight for 170.”

Reigning UFC lightweight titleholder Justin Gaethje appears to be out for the remainder of 2026. “The Highlight” recently said that both his hands are injured, and he doesn’t envision returning to the Octagon until 2027. If Tsarukyan becomes Gaethje’s first challenger, he’ll need to wait a little bit, but he has no issue staying active outside of UFC competition.

Do you think Arman Tsarukyan can top Islam Makhachev’s run at lightweight, or will he run into issues at some point? Sound off in the comments below.

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