Rising UFC lightweight star Arman Tsarukyan has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled title bout against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 due to a back injury. Despite the disappointment, Tsarukyan remains grateful for the support from fans and the understanding shown by the UFC. With Renato Moicano stepping in on short notice, the question remains whether Tsarukyan will still have a shot at the title once he is fully recovered or if he will need to earn another opportunity.
Arman Tsarukyan Withdraws from UFC 311 Lightweight Title Bout
Rising UFC lightweight star Arman Tsarukyan has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled title bout against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 due to a back injury.
Tsarukyan suffered the injury during training and has been advised by doctors to withdraw from the fight. The bout, which was originally scheduled as the main event of UFC 311 on March 27, has been postponed indefinitely.
In a statement released by the UFC, Tsarukyan expressed his disappointment and gratitude: "I'm very disappointed to have to withdraw from my title fight with Islam Makhachev. I've been training hard for this opportunity and I believe I'm ready to win the belt. I want to thank the fans for their support and the UFC for understanding my situation. I'm going to take some time to heal and come back stronger than ever."
With Tsarukyan's withdrawal, Renato Moicano will step in on short notice to face Makhachev. The fight is expected to headline UFC 311, but the date and location have yet to be announced.
Background on Arman Tsarukyan
Arman Tsarukyan (16-2) is a 24-year-old Armenian-Russian fighter who has quickly risen through the ranks of the UFC lightweight division. He made his UFC debut in 2019 and has since won four consecutive fights, including victories over Christos Giagos, David Zawada, and Olivier Aubin-Mercier.
Tsarukyan is known for his aggressive grappling and submission skills. He holds seven submission victories in his professional career and has a reputation for being a dangerous opponent on the ground.
FAQs about Arman Tsarukyan's Withdrawal
Q: When will Tsarukyan be able to return to competition?
A: The UFC has not announced a specific timetable for Tsarukyan's return. However, he is expected to be out for several months while he recovers from his back injury.
Q: Will Tsarukyan still get a title shot once he is fully recovered?
A: The UFC has not confirmed whether Tsarukyan will receive a title shot once he is fully recovered. However, it is likely that he will be given another opportunity to compete for the belt.
Q: Who will Moicano face at UFC 311?
A: Moicano will face Islam Makhachev in the main event of UFC 311. Makhachev was originally scheduled to fight Tsarukyan, but will now face Moicano instead.
Q: What is the injury that Tsarukyan suffered?
A: Tsarukyan suffered a back injury during training. The UFC has not released any further details about the nature of the injury.
Q: What is the status of the UFC lightweight title picture?
A: The UFC lightweight title is currently held by Khabib Nurmagomedov. However, Nurmagomedov has retired from MMA and is expected to vacate the title soon. Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor are expected to fight for the vacant title in early 2022.
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