The highly anticipated BMF title bout between Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira, headlining UFC 326 last month, left many fans disappointed. Despite significant build-up, the fight failed to deliver the expected excitement.
Throughout the five-round encounter, Oliveira consistently employed a wrestling strategy, maintaining control over Holloway and effectively neutralizing his offensive attempts. The judges unanimously awarded the victory to the Brazilian, highlighting Holloway’s apparent inability to mount an effective counter-attack.
Despite subsequent rumors of a potential high-profile clash between Holloway and Conor McGregor during International Fight Week, Arman Tsarukyan quickly dismissed such speculation. Tsarukyan asserted that the Hawaiian competitor is past his prime and no longer capable of competing effectively among the elite.
During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Arman Tsarukyan sharply criticized Holloway’s performance: “Max is finished. He’s only looking to earn money before retiring. He’s not the same fighter he once was. His last outing was shockingly poor. I was genuinely surprised. How can someone lack wrestling skills entirely? After two decades in the sport, he couldn’t even defend against takedowns from Charles Oliveira, who isn’t even known for his wrestling; his strength is jiu-jitsu.”
Tsarukyan also voiced his opinion that the lightweight division is stagnating due to the presence of seasoned veterans like Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje. He expressed his ambition to revitalize the division, envisioning himself as the champion after a potential victory over Ilia Topuria.
Arman Tsarukyan Discusses Olympic Wrestling Aspirations
Since missing his initial chance last year, Arman Tsarukyan has been relentlessly pursuing a title shot. His extensive media engagements have significantly enhanced his profile and popularity among mixed martial arts enthusiasts.
The Armenian fighter’s consistent activity in wrestling has garnered him a strong reputation. Notably, former Olympic wrestler Kurt Angle recently acknowledged Tsarukyan’s potential to secure an Olympic medal.
When queried about this possibility, Tsarukyan offered a candid perspective, emphasizing his primary focus on achieving a UFC championship. He remarked, “If I were a UFC champion, I might consider it. But currently, no. There’s no financial incentive; it’s purely for national pride, to bring home a medal. It would be incredibly challenging to compete against athletes who have dedicated 25 years solely to freestyle wrestling.”
Arman Tsarukyan firmly believes he is the rightful next challenger for the title and anticipates a showdown with the victor of the Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje bout at UFC Freedom 250. He posited that the current champion is more likely to overcome Gaethje, setting up a subsequent clash with Tsarukyan.