After UFC Qatar, the future of the lightweight division became much clearer. On the Middle East’s big stage, Arman Tsarukyan delivered one of the finest performances of his career against Dan Hooker, submitting the Kiwi fighter within two rounds. With this win, the Armenian-Russian fighter passed Dana White’s “ back to the drawing board” test. Tsarukyan has now set his sights on reigning lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, and their rivalry has been building since earlier this year.

The tension grew quickly after ‘El Matador’ captured the belt, and Arman Tsarukyan has kept the pressure on ever since, repeatedly calling for a title shot. After finishing Hooker, ‘Ahalkalakets’ went straight to X with a message for Ilia Topuria: “No more running.” He made it clear that he is healthy and

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