Arman Tsarukyan on Being Avoided in the UFC

In a recent episode of the JAXXON Podcast, hosted by Rampage Jackson and others, UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan discussed his belief that many fighters are ducking him. He expressed frustration over the lack of willingness from top contenders to face him in the octagon, attributing it to his aggressive fighting style and growing reputation. Tsarukyan pointed out that his performances have made him a risky opponent, as a loss to him could significantly impact a fighter's standing in the division.

Thoughts on Mayhem Miller's Influence

During the conversation, around the 15:30 mark, Tsarukyan shifted focus to discuss the impact of Jason 'Mayhem' Miller on MMA. He acknowledged Miller's role in bringing entertainment and personality to the sport during its earlier days. Tsarukyan noted that while Miller's antics were controversial, they helped draw attention to MMA, paving the way for fighters to express themselves beyond just their in-cage performances.

Respect for Marcus Buchecha's Transition

At approximately the 25:10 timestamp, Tsarukyan spoke highly of Marcus 'Buchecha' Almeida, the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend who transitioned to MMA. He praised Buchecha's grappling skills, calling him one of the best in the world, and expressed admiration for his willingness to step into a new combat discipline. Tsarukyan highlighted how Buchecha's move to MMA demonstrates the evolving nature of the sport, where specialists from other martial arts are testing their skills in the cage.

Addressing Lightweight Division Dynamics

Tsarukyan also delved into the current state of the UFC lightweight division later in the podcast, near the 40:00 mark. He mentioned specific fighters who he believes are avoiding matchups with him, though he refrained from excessive criticism. Instead, he focused on his readiness to take on any challenge and his determination to climb the ranks. His confidence was evident as he discussed his training regimen and strategic approach to upcoming fights, emphasizing his goal of securing a title shot.

Personal Insights and Mindset

Towards the latter part of the interview, around the 55:20 point, Tsarukyan offered insights into his personal mindset as a fighter. He spoke about the mental challenges of staying motivated when opponents seem reluctant to engage. Despite these hurdles, he reiterated his commitment to proving himself against the best in the division, showcasing a blend of patience and ambition that defines his career trajectory.