In a surprising turn of events, Armenian mixed martial artist Arman Tsarukyan is set to challenge the reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 311. This highly anticipated match will take place on Saturday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. While many fighters focus on building their legacy, Tsarukyan has expressed an unconventional approach should he win the title. Rather than aiming for multiple title defenses or becoming a two-time champion, Tsarukyan plans to prioritize financial opportunities over athletic achievements.

Tsarukyan's Unique Perspective on Championship

In the bustling city of Inglewood, California, the MMA world will witness a pivotal moment as Arman Tsarukyan faces off against Islam Makhachev in the main event of UFC 311. With a career record of 22 wins and 3 losses, Tsarukyan has steadily climbed the ranks within the UFC. His victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 secured his position as the top contender. However, if Tsarukyan emerges victorious this time, his priorities will shift dramatically.

During an interview on the "Pound 4 Pound" podcast, Tsarukyan revealed that winning the championship would mark the end of his pursuit of sports glory. Instead, he plans to treat future fights as business transactions, choosing opponents based on which bouts offer the highest financial rewards. Tsarukyan emphasized that his immediate goal is to become champion, but afterward, his focus will be on maximizing earnings rather than defending the title multiple times. He even mentioned the possibility of retiring from the sport altogether if his father advises him to pursue other lucrative ventures.

On the other hand, Makhachev aims to extend his reign by achieving a record-breaking fourth title defense in the lightweight division. The contrast between the two fighters' mindsets adds an intriguing layer to this high-stakes encounter.

From a journalist's perspective, Tsarukyan's candid admission offers a unique insight into the mindset of modern athletes. It highlights the evolving relationship between sports and commerce, where financial considerations can sometimes overshadow traditional notions of athletic achievement. This shift in priorities may prompt discussions about the balance between legacy and profitability in professional sports.