Alexander Volkanovski Welcomes Arman Tsarukyan Challenge, Confident in His Takedown Defense
Alexander Volkanovski is open to facing top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan if the latter moves down to featherweight.
Earlier today on The Ariel Helwani Show, the Armenian fighter teased a move down to 145 pounds if the UFC brass doesn’t grant him a title shot next against Justin Gaethje (interim champ) or Ilia Topuria (undisputed champ).
Arman Tsarukyan told Ariel Helwani that he has talked to his team and is confident that, although he currently weighs 170 pounds or even more, he can transition to featherweight with more cardio, a strict diet, and ample time to cut. While discussing a potential bout with current and two-time 145-pound kingpin Volkanovski,’ Ahalkalakets’ acknowledged that ‘The Great’ is one of the featherweight GOATs.
However, the Aussie is 37 years old now and beyond his prime. Hence, Tsarukyan thinks he can knock Volkanovski out with one axe kick.
“I’m gonna try to get the title at 145. We did the math, so my body can go to 145… [ Me vs Volkanovski] One axe kick. That’s it.”
Alexander Volkanovski accepts Arman Tsarukyan’s challenge
Alexander Volkanovski will make the first title defense of his second reign this weekend at UFC 325 when he meets Diego Lopes in a rematch.
On media day, when the Australian was informed about Arman Tsarukyan’s wish to move down for a title shot, ‘The Great’ welcomed the challenge with open arms.
A potential bout between Volkanovski and Tsarukyan would be highly entertaining. The 29-year-old’s elite wrestling would clash with Volkanovski’s proven takedown defense, which he showcased impressively against Dagestani wrestling maestro Islam Makhachev in 2023.
“I love challenges. If he can get down there, it would definitely be a tough challenge. I feel like my takedown defense is pretty solid, so that will be a fun one.”
Check out Alexander Volkanovski and Arman Tsarukyan’s comments below:
