Arman Tsarukyan confident he would beat prime Khabib Nurmagomedov: ‘I’m more well-rounded than him’ Arman Tsarukyan, the undefeated lightweight contender, has expressed his belief that he could defeat the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov if they ever faced off, calling the former UFC champion “less complete” than himself. Tsarukyan, who has won five consecutive MMA bouts since 2022, emphasized his technical versatility as a key advantage in such a matchup. Speaking to Hassan Yosufi, he stated, “My skills are my biggest advantage. I’m more well-rounded than him.” This confidence comes as Tsarukyan continues to compete in grappling matches globally while awaiting his next UFC assignment. Nurmagomedov, who retired in 2020 with a perfect 29-0 record, dominated the lightweight division by submitting Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje in his final three fights. Despite his retirement, Tsarukyan has positioned himself as a potential heir to Nurmagomedov’s legacy, citing his ability to adapt to different styles. The 29-year-old fighter, who lost his UFC debut to Islam Makhachev in 2019, has since carved out a reputation as a relentless competitor. His recent victories include a split decision over former champion Charles Oliveira and a second-round submission of Dan Hooker in November 2025. Tsarukyan’s path to the UFC title has been shaped by key moments in the division’s history. In April 2025, Nurmagomedov had previously suggested Tsarukyan would be a more challenging opponent for then-lightweight champion Islam Makhachev than Ilia Topuria. That prediction proved prescient when Topuria, despite being considered a “more serious fighter” by Nurmagomedov, knocked out Charles Oliveira to claim the UFC lightweight title after Makhachev vacated the belt to move up to welterweight.#arman_tsarukyan #khabib_nurmagomedov #hassan_yosufi #urijah_faber #raf_8
