Post-UFC Qatar Analysis: Tsarukyan Stakes Lightweight Claim, Garry Ascends Welterweight Ranks

The Ultimate Fighting Championship’s recent venture into Qatar delivered a night of pivotal matchups that reshaped the landscapes of the lightweight and welterweight divisions, leaving both Arman Tsarukyan and Ian Machado Garry poised for significant advancements in their respective careers. Following dominant performances in the main and co-main events, the combat sports world is now engaged in fervent speculation regarding their next moves and potential paths to championship gold.

Arman Tsarukyan, the Armenian-Russian lightweight sensation, delivered a statement performance in the headliner of UFC Fight Night Qatar, submitting veteran contender Dan Hooker in a display of calculated aggression and superior grappling. The victory, secured in the second round, marked Tsarukyan’s fourth consecutive win and arguably his most impressive to date, solidifying his position as a formidable force in the deeply competitive lightweight division. From the opening bell, Tsarukyan pressed the action, utilizing his wrestling prowess to control Hooker, known for his dangerous striking and resilience. After an initial feeling-out period that saw both fighters exchange significant blows, Tsarukyan systematically broke down Hooker, securing a takedown and transitioning through positions before locking in a rear-naked choke that forced the tap at 2:28 of the second round. This win not only added a high-profile name to Tsarukyan’s resume but also underscored his evolving skillset, demonstrating a complete mixed martial arts game.

Following the decisive victory, Tsarukyan was unequivocal in his demand for a shot at the UFC lightweight title. Currently held by Islam Makhachev, the lightweight belt represents the pinnacle of one of the sport’s most talent-rich divisions. Tsarukyan’s argument for title contention is robust: his sole UFC loss came in his promotional debut against Makhachev himself in 2019, a fight widely praised for its competitiveness despite Tsarukyan taking it on short notice. Since then, Tsarukyan has compiled a record of 9-1, including impressive wins over ranked opponents such as Beneil Dariush, Joaquim Silva, and now Dan Hooker. His technical proficiency, relentless pace, and ability to adapt mid-fight have drawn comparisons to the division’s elite.

The immediate question for the UFC matchmakers is whether Tsarukyan’s compelling resume is sufficient to bypass other high-profile contenders. One name frequently mentioned in discussions for a lightweight title shot is Paddy Pimblett. The Liverpudlian fighter, known for his charismatic personality and significant fan following, has steadily climbed the ranks with an undefeated UFC record. While Pimblett’s popularity is undeniable, his strength of schedule has often been scrutinized when compared to Tsarukyan’s more battle-tested path. A potential title shot for Pimblett ahead of Tsarukyan would likely be perceived by many as a decision driven by marketability rather than pure meritocracy. The UFC has historically balanced these considerations, and the coming months will reveal their strategic direction for the 155-pound division. If Tsarukyan is indeed bypassed, potential interim opponents could include former champions like Charles Oliveira or Dustin Poirier, or top contenders such as Justin Gaethje or Mateusz Gamrot, each representing a significant challenge that would further solidify his claim.

Related News :

In the co-main event, Ian Machado Garry continued his ascent through the welterweight ranks, securing a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over the highly regarded Belal Muhammad. Garry, an undefeated prospect from Ireland, faced his toughest test yet in Muhammad, a fighter known for his relentless pressure, grappling, and ability to grind out wins against top competition. The fight was a technical affair, with Garry demonstrating improved defensive wrestling and a commitment to his striking game. He effectively utilized his range, snapping jabs, and sharp kicks to keep Muhammad at bay for extended periods, landing the cleaner, more impactful strikes throughout the three rounds. While Muhammad had moments of success with takedown attempts and cage control, Garry’s evasiveness and ability to scramble back to his feet prevented him from being held down for prolonged periods. The judges scored the bout 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28, all in favor of Garry, extending his professional record to an unblemished 15-0.

The victory over Muhammad, who was on a nine-fight unbeaten streak and ranked among the top contenders, signifies a major milestone for Garry. It propels him into the upper echelon of the welterweight division, which is currently ruled by champion Leon Edwards. Garry’s confident post-fight statements indicated his readiness for a continued climb, potentially eyeing a fight against another top-five contender to solidify his championship aspirations. The welterweight division is stacked with talent, including former interim champion Colby Covington, the undefeated phenom Shavkat Rakhmonov, and explosive strikers like Jack Della Maddalena. Any of these matchups would serve as a crucial litmus test for Garry’s readiness to challenge for the title. The strategic choice for Garry’s next opponent will be critical in managing his trajectory, balancing competitive challenge with continued career progression.

Beyond the headlining acts, UFC Qatar showcased several other impressive performances that have implications for their respective divisions. Volkan Oezdemir, the Swiss light heavyweight contender, delivered a powerful performance, securing a TKO victory in the first round. Known for his "No Time" moniker, Oezdemir lived up to his reputation, landing a devastating combination that put his opponent away early. This win injects new life into Oezdemir’s career and positions him for further challenges within the competitive light heavyweight division, potentially against a top-ten contender.

Myktybek Orolbai, fighting in the lightweight division, also made a strong impression with a dominant submission victory. Orolbai showcased his formidable grappling skills, controlling the fight from the outset and eventually securing a well-executed submission. This win continues his positive momentum in the UFC, signaling him as a prospect to watch in the deep lightweight roster.

In the heavyweight division, Waldo Cortes-Acosta earned a unanimous decision victory, displaying his improving striking and cardio over three rounds. The win adds another notch to his professional record and moves him closer to breaking into the divisional rankings. Cortes-Acosta’s continued development will be a key storyline as he faces increasingly tougher competition in the heavyweight landscape.

Additionally, Kyoji Horiguchi, a fighter with a celebrated career across various promotions including Rizin and Bellator, secured a notable victory. While specific details of his opponent and the manner of victory were not immediately available, Horiguchi’s presence on a UFC main card and subsequent win underscore his enduring talent and ability to compete at the highest levels of mixed martial arts. His performance, regardless of the opponent, adds another layer of intrigue to his storied career.

The aftermath of UFC Qatar leaves the Ultimate Fighting Championship with compelling narratives and challenging matchmaking decisions. Arman Tsarukyan’s forceful declaration for a lightweight title shot creates a direct challenge to the reigning champion and other contenders, forcing the promotion to weigh merit against marketability. Ian Machado Garry’s undefeated streak and victory over a top-ranked welterweight solidify his status as a legitimate threat, charting a clear course towards championship contention. The performances across the main card have set the stage for a dynamic second half of the year, with numerous fighters poised to make their mark on the sport’s premier stage. The UFC’s next matchmaking announcements will undoubtedly be scrutinized as the paths to glory for these emerging stars continue to unfold.