Arman Tsarukyan Plans to Fight Three Times a Year if He Wins the UFC Lightweight Title

Tsarukyan on the Road to the Lightweight Championship

Arman Tsarukyan, one of the standout young contenders in the UFC lightweight division, is preparing for a pivotal fight scheduled for UFC 331 this September. In this bout, Tsarukyan will face Mauricio Rua, an opponent widely regarded as one of the most promising title contenders. Many see this matchup as a direct path to the championship, with the winner expected to challenge the current lightweight champion, Justin Gaethje, who is anticipated to return to the octagon only in 2027 after a long hiatus following two grueling fights this year.

This fight marks a major turning point in Tsarukyan’s career, who until now has averaged about one fight per year due to injuries and breaks. A victory over Rua would give him his best shot yet at claiming the title and becoming a household name in one of the UFC’s most competitive and exciting divisions.

Tsarukyan’s Ambition to Stay Active as Champion

At 29 years old, Tsarukyan is in his prime and eager to make the most of this period. In an interview with MMAFighting.com, he made it clear that if he wins the title, he plans to fight at least three times a year—a notably high pace for a UFC champion. Tsarukyan explained that he is young, highly motivated, and hungry for success, ready to make the sacrifices necessary to maintain peak physical and mental condition. He emphasized that not only is he prepared to continue cutting weight to stay in the lightweight division, but he also wants to prove that a champion can remain active and deliver frequent, exciting fights for the fans.

This pace of three fights per year is especially significant in MMA, where many fighters are forced into long layoffs due to injuries, complex preparations, and physical demands. Tsarukyan aims to break this mold and set an example of an active champion who consistently steps back into the octagon, which could boost public interest and strengthen his standing among fans.

What This Means for Israeli Fans and Local Fighters

Although Arman Tsarukyan is not Israeli, he enjoys widespread support among MMA fans in Israel, a community that has grown significantly in recent years. Israel has a passionate fanbase for mixed martial arts, with local fighters like Oren Kahlon and middleweight champion Israel Adesanya bringing the sport into the national spotlight.

Tsarukyan’s statements about wanting to be an especially active champion serve as inspiration for young athletes in Israel and local MMA enthusiasts who want to see fighters committed to frequent competition and achievement. His success could highlight the importance of perseverance, careful planning, and mental toughness required to compete at the highest level of combat sports.

Challenges Ahead on the Path to the Title

While the fight against Rua is seen as a stepping stone to a title shot, Tsarukyan knows the road won’t be easy. Mauricio Rua is a skilled fighter with an aggressive style, and this bout is expected to be tough and complex. Beyond that, winning the title doesn’t guarantee an easy defense, as Justin Gaethje is a tough champion known for intense fights and an aggressive approach that challenges every opponent.

Moreover, maintaining a pace of three fights a year demands not only high physical ability but also smart management of training, rest, and recovery. Tsarukyan will need to balance his desire to stay active with the need to protect his health and avoid injuries.

In summary, Arman Tsarukyan is setting very ambitious goals that signal a shift in the mindset of UFC fighters—a champion who is available, active, and hungry for fights. His upcoming bout with Rua and his continued journey in the UFC promise to be thrilling for MMA fans in Israel and around the world.