Michael Chandler believes Islam Makhachev "absolutely smokes" Arman Tsarukyan in potential rematch: "He doesn’t like me"
Michael Chandler recently predicted that Islam Makhachev would decisively dominate Arman Tsarukyan in a potential rematch. Makhachev is speculated to defend his lightweight title against Tsarukyan in the headliner of UFC 311, scheduled for January 2025. However, the UFC has yet to make an official announcement about the fight.
The reigning UFC lightweight champion previously faced 'Ahalkalakets' in a highly competitive short-notice bout at a UFC Fight Night event in April 2019, where Makhachev ultimately emerged victorious. Due to the fierce competition in their first fight, many fans anticipate that a potential rematch would also be closely contested.
However, 'Iron' offered a differing view, firmly asserting that Makhachev will dominate Tsarukyan and claim a decisive victory. During a recent interview with New York Post Sports, Chandler recognized the skills that Tsarukyan possesses but emphasized that he is simply no match for the Dagestani powerhouse:
"He’s just a young, hungry dude making his presence be known. He’s matured. He’s got some great wins. His last win was over [Charles] Oliveira, my next opponent, so he’s earned this title shot... I wish him well. I think Islam absolutely smokes him, but at least he’s got great hair."
Check out Michael Chandler's comments below (12:51):
Makhachev successfully defended his title for the third time when he submitted Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in June. Meanwhile, Tsarukyan is coming off a hard-fought split decision victory over Oliveira at UFC 300 in April.
When Michael Chandler explained how he could beat Islam Makhachev in potential clash
Michael Chandler is convinced that he will soon face Islam Makhachev for the title, believing he possesses all the necessary attributes to dethrone the UFC lightweight champion if they were to meet in the octagon.
'Iron' has been on the sidelines since his submission loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 281 in November 2022. However, Chandler is gearing up for his against Charles Oliveira in the co-main event of UFC 309, which is expected to be a potential title eliminator.
During an interview with MMAFighting in September, Chandler shared his insights on a potential showdown with Makhachev and even provided a possible timeline for when the fight might take place:
"I think I've got a great style to beat Islam; as I said, good old-fashioned, passionate, hardworking Missouri division one wrestling beats Dagestani Sambo every day of the week. I got dynamite in my hands; I got cardio for days, and I can push the pace. I believe I beat Islam... I believe I will fight and beat Islam in early 2025."
Check out Michael Chandler's comments below (17:24):