Arman Tsarukyan Targets Rematch with Former UFC Champion

**Arman Tsarukyan** is eyeing a rematch with former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira, planning the fight for later this year after his bout with Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 left champion Justin Gaethje sidelined.

Why is the rematch on the table?

Tsarukyan’s manager Sayat Abdrakhmanov told Match TV that Gaethje’s expected six‑month layoff makes a fight with Oliveira the most attractive option. The BMF titleholder, who lost to Tsarukyan by split decision at UFC 300 in **April 2024**, still holds a belt that could be on the line. With no guaranteed title shot at 155 lb, the Armenian contender wants to keep his momentum and earnings flowing.

How does the previous encounter shape expectations?

The first meeting between Tsarukyan and Oliveira was razor‑thin. A split‑decision win for Tsarukyan kept the result controversial, leaving fans eager for a clearer outcome. Oliveira’s BMF championship adds stakes, and a decisive victory would cement Tsarukyan’s claim as the division’s next challenger. The split decision also means both fighters have something to prove, making the narrative compelling for the UFC’s lightweight roster.

What does the division look like without Gaethje?

Gaethje’s recovery period opens a temporary vacuum at the top of the lightweight rankings. Tsarukyan, currently ranked among the top contenders, could leapfrog other hopefuls by taking a high‑profile fight now. A win over Oliveira would likely push him into the mandatory challenger slot, forcing the UFC to schedule a title bout sooner rather than later. Meanwhile, other contenders such as Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier remain in the mix, but a fresh victory would give Tsarukyan a clear edge.

What are the next steps for Tsarukyan?

The next few weeks will see negotiations between Tsarukyan’s camp and Oliveira’s team. If both sides agree, the fight could be slated for a major pay‑per‑view event in late 2026, giving the Armenian star a platform to showcase his wrestling‑heavy style. Regardless of the outcome, staying active after his win over Dan Hooker last November will add valuable experience and keep his name in the headlines.

How will this affect Tsarukyan’s career trajectory?

A successful rematch would likely secure a title shot against Gaethje or the next champion, while a loss could set Tsarukyan back in the rankings. Either way, the bout promises to be a pivotal moment for the 27‑year‑old’s ascent in the UFC lightweight division. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the negotiations unfold.