Arman Tsarukyan: The Underrated UFC Lightweight Contender Poised for Domination

Arman Tsarukyan. The name might not yet ring bells with casual UFC fans, but within the fight community, it's whispered with respect, bordering on awe. This unassuming lightweight possesses a skillset so complete, so relentlessly applied, that he's quietly positioned himself as one of the most dangerous fighters in the division, a genuine contender waiting for his moment to explode onto the mainstream consciousness. This article delves deep into the career and capabilities of Arman Tsarukyan, exploring why he's considered one of the most underrated fighters in the UFC and why his rise to the top is inevitable.

The Foundation: Wrestling Prowess

Tsarukyan's foundation is undeniably his wrestling. A former world champion in freestyle wrestling, his takedown game is nothing short of exceptional. He combines explosive athleticism with technical precision, consistently controlling the pace and positioning in the clinch. His chain wrestling is masterful; he effortlessly transitions between takedowns, controlling opponents with his superior grip fighting and positioning. This isn't just about securing takedowns; it's about controlling the fight entirely, dictating where the fight takes place, and tiring his opponents before they even land a significant strike.

This wrestling base isn't merely a defensive tool; it's the engine that drives his entire offense. He uses takedowns to set up ground-and-pound, control position for submission attempts, and create openings for strikes. His ability to seamlessly transition between grappling and striking makes him a truly formidable opponent, forcing his adversaries to constantly defend against both.

Evolving Striking: A Force to be Reckoned With

While his wrestling is undeniably his strength, Tsarukyan's striking has dramatically improved. He's not just relying on volume; he's showcasing improved technique, power, and accuracy. His striking isn't flashy, but it's incredibly effective. He uses a mix of powerful punches, precise kicks, and effective elbows to maintain a relentless pressure that keeps his opponents constantly on the defensive. He's effectively turning his wrestling into a weapon to set up striking opportunities, creating angles and openings for damage.

He's shown considerable improvement in his striking defense as well, displaying a remarkable ability to avoid or absorb incoming strikes. This defensive prowess combined with his offensive pressure allows him to maintain a dominant position and control the pace throughout the fight, dictating the terms of engagement.

Examples of Tsarukyan's Striking Development:

• His fight against Islam Makhachev showcased improved power and accuracy in his striking.
• Against Renato Moicano, he demonstrated improved head movement and footwork, enabling him to land cleaner strikes.
• His recent performances highlight a well-rounded striking game, incorporating a wider variety of techniques and combinations.

Unrelenting Pressure: A Trademark Style

Beyond the technical aspects of his wrestling and striking, Tsarukyan's relentless pressure is a defining characteristic of his fighting style. He never lets up; he constantly pushes forward, controlling the distance, dictating the pace, and wearing down his opponents. This unwavering pressure forces mistakes, creates openings, and ultimately breaks the will of his adversaries. It's a style that's both physically and mentally draining, making him a uniquely challenging opponent.

The Makhachev Fight: A Turning Point?

His fight against Islam Makhachev is a key moment in understanding Tsarukyan's potential. While he lost a close decision, the performance showcased his exceptional skillset and highlighted the fact that he could go toe-to-toe with one of the UFC's top lightweights. It demonstrated his durability, his resilience, and his ability to compete at the highest level. Many analysts believe that a rematch would be a much closer contest, with Tsarukyan potentially emerging victorious.

The fight wasn’t just a loss; it was a testament to his ability to compete with the elite. It established him as a legitimate contender, showcasing his readiness for a title shot.

Future Prospects and Potential Title Run

Arman Tsarukyan's future is bright. With his well-rounded skillset, unrelenting pressure, and constant improvement, he’s poised to make a serious run at the lightweight title. His improvements in striking, coupled with his already dominant wrestling, make him a complete fighter. His determination and unwavering commitment to improving all facets of his game further solidify his potential.

He needs a few more high-profile wins to solidify his position as a top contender, but based on his consistent progress and his impressive performances, it's only a matter of time before he challenges for the belt.

What to watch for in Tsarukyan's future fights:

• Further refinement of his striking technique and power.
• Continued improvements in his cardio, allowing him to maintain his relentless pressure throughout longer fights.
• Strategic matchups that allow him to showcase his strengths and exploit the weaknesses of his opponents.

Why is Arman Tsarukyan Underrated?

Arman Tsarukyan’s underrated status likely stems from a few factors:

• Relatively quiet personality: He isn’t a trash-talking, flamboyant fighter. He lets his skills do the talking.
• Competition level: While he consistently wins, he hasn’t faced the absolute top contenders frequently enough to fully capture mainstream attention.
• The Makhachev loss: While a strong performance, the loss overshadows some of the aspects of his skill set to the casual viewer.

However, his impressive performances, combined with his relentless improvement, are destined to change his public perception. His name will soon be synonymous with dominance in the lightweight division.

Conclusion: The Rise of a Champion

Arman Tsarukyan represents a compelling blend of technical prowess, relentless pressure, and unwavering dedication. He’s not just a talented fighter; he’s a student of the game, constantly striving to refine his skills and reach his full potential. His journey is far from over, but his trajectory suggests a bright future, one that will undoubtedly include a title shot and, potentially, UFC gold. Keep your eye on this rising star—Arman Tsarukyan's time is now.

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