Nurmagomedov fought out his Professional Fighters League contract by defending his lightweight title against Archie Colgan. He is currently the most sought-after free agent in mixed martial arts. Tsarukyan claims the undefeated Russian beats most 155-pounders in the UFC.
Arman Tsarukyan says Usman Nurmagomedov is a threat to nearly every UFC lightweight
Tsarukyan claims Nurmagomedov (22-0) beats almost everyone in the UFC lightweight division except him. The top-ranked lightweight even believes that Nurmagomedov beats current UFC champion Justin Gaethje. However, Tsarukyan says the Dagestani hasn’t been tested at the highest level in the PFL.
“He can beat a lot of guys in our division because, stylistically, he’s so good,” Tsarukyan told Ariel Helwani. “He can wrestle; he can strike. But there are tough guys too, so let’s see. Because in PFL there is no competition... Yes, [he beats Gaethje]. Almost, yes [I think he beats almost everyone in the division except me].”
According to Tsarukyan, while the former PFL star is dangerous everywhere, some UFC lightweights can still be a threat to the undefeated Dagestani. He believes the surging Quillan Salkilld and former champ Charles Oliveira would be interesting matchups against Nurmagomedov. As for himself, Tsarukyan is focused on becoming a champion before he can consider fighting Nurmagomedov.
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“There are some new guys we have to see. The guy who choked out Gamrot... That guy is good,” Tsarukyan added. “Charles Oliveira would be an interesting fight too because Charles can do some submissions, take his back, choke him out, but Usman is good everywhere, so he’s dangerous for everyone. He’s legit… I’ve got to do my work, become a champion, and then we can talk.”
Tsarukyan looks to further strengthen his case for a title shot when he takes on Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331.
Arman Tsarukyan reacts to the UFC potentially signing Usman Nurmagomedov and the possibility of a future matchup:
“He can beat a lot of guys in our division because, stylistically, he’s so good... I think he beats Gaethje. I think he beats almost everyone in the division.
There… pic.twitter.com/AFhexlzHsJ— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) August 17, 2026