Islam Makhachev is Taking the harder Road, Says Top Contender Arman Tsarukyan – And here’s Why

Las vegas, NV – June 2, 2025 – As Islam Makhachev prepares to challenge for welterweight gold against Jack Della maddalena, a narrative has emerged suggesting the lightweight champion is avoiding a rematch with rising star Ilia Topuria. However,top contender Arman Tsarukyan vehemently disagrees,arguing Makhachev is actually choosing the more arduous path.

Makhachev, widely considered one of the greatest 155lb fighters of all time, recently secured

Given the article’s focus on the potential Makhachev vs. Topuria fight, and the reasons behind a possible non-materialization of the match-up, what are the key logistical hurdles that coudl prevent such a fight from occurring?

Makhachev Didn’t Duck Topuria: Rival Defends Champion

The mixed martial arts world has been buzzing with speculation about a potential fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. While the two haven’t faced each other in the Octagon, the question frequently arises: did Makhachev duck Topuria? This article dives into the arguments, rival perspectives, and the realities of fight negotiations, dispelling the myth and exploring why the fight might never have materialized – or is merely delayed. We’ll analyze this question and what the UFC lightweight division has to offer. The discussion involves factors such as fight logistics and fight styles, all in an attempt to discover if Makhachev dodged Ilia topuria.

The Narrative of a “Duck”: Understanding the Accusation

The accusation of “ducking” in MMA implies a fighter is deliberately avoiding a challenging opponent. In this case, supporters of Ilia Topuria, known for his relentless pressure and power, might believe Makhachev, the current UFC lightweight champion, would avoid the danger involved in fighting him, particularly to maintain his championship status. This perception is often fueled by:

• Statements or actions perceived as avoiding a direct confrontation.
• Perceived mismatches in experience or skill (though topuria’s skills are widely respected).
• Negotiation difficulties or disagreements in fight scheduling.

However, fight schedules and fighter availability are constantly changing within the professional fight game! This is just the basis behind the “duck” concept.

Key Points to Consider: Why Makhachev Likely Didn’t Duck topuria

Several factors suggest the “ducking” narrative is an oversimplification. Understanding Makhachev’s career, past fight records, and motivations reveals a fighter who actively seeks out the best challenges.

Negotiations and Logistics

Professional fight contracts are complex. Beyond simply agreeing to a fight, factors like the venue, date, financial parameters, and television rights play a huge role. all things MUST be lined up to make this happen. It’s very likely many of these didn’t align.

• Medical clearances, scheduling conflicts, and fight duration time often cause problems.
• Negotiations of the Fight: Weight class, potential championship status, and contract details.
• Available of Makhachev and topuria: Both fighters have a variety of constraints, from injuries and personal preferences, to sponsorship obligations.

The Role of Other Opponents

Focusing only on Topuria overlooks that Makhachev might have fought other highly-regarded opponents, particularly at lightweight, meaning this could have been a delay due to other commitments.

• Alexander Volkanovski: Frequent champion contender.
• dustin Poirier: Former interim lightweight champion.
• Charles Oliveira: Former lightweight champion; rematch desires.

Style Matchups & Risk Assessment

While styles make fights, Makhachev is unlikely to avoid a challenging matchup just as it presents difficulty.

Islam makhachev: Grappling-heavy control, effective striking.

Ilia Topuria: Box-heavy striking, unrelenting pressure.

The risk of a knockout loss is high in every fight. Makhachev, like all champions, assesses the risk-reward.

Analyzing Rival Perspectives: What Other Fighters Say

Statements made by other fighters who no Makhachev frequently enough provide an insightful alternative to any narrative. makhachev himself has spoken openly about wanting the best fights. Such as:

Daniel Cormier, MMA Analyst and Former UFC Champion: “Islam wants to fight the best. He wouldn’t shy away from a challenge.” This helps to solidify the claim of no “ducking.”

Alexander Volkanovski Volkanovski – A top level fighter also with close ties with Makhachev would have a grate insight into the situation.

These statements help cast doubt on the idea of Makhachev’s avoidance, pointing towards other reasons the fight hadn’t happened.

Understanding the Factors That keep fighters Apart

There are numerous reasons why a fight might not materialize that have NOTHING to do with one fighter “avoiding” another.

Injuries Injuries are part of the sport, and can easily derail fight plans.

Weight Class and timing Weight class and timing can also impact a fight significantly. For example, the UFC 155-pound division is very difficult.

Contract Discussions Contract negotiations are often complex and fraught with issues.

The Future: Will Makhachev vs. Topuria Happen?

The future of the Makhachev vs.topuria fight is open, and a delayed fight doesn’t mean it won’t eventually happen. The key is for both fighters to remain active, successful, and injury-free within their respective divisions.

Here is a quick breakdown of possible future scenarios regarding the Makhachev Topuria Fight:

Ultimately, the MMA world will continue to speculate, but it’s essential to approach this and other fight talks with nuance, recognizing the complexities that shape these matchups.