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10 January 2026 - 10:07 AMT

Tsarukyan says back injury derailed Makhachev title fight

Mixed martial arts fighter Arman Tsarukyan, who competes in the UFC lightweight division, spoke on Adin Ross’s podcast about why he withdrew from the 2025 title fight against Islam Makhachev.

Tsarukyan said he was ready for the fight but began experiencing pain. Medical scans later revealed a herniated disc in his lower spine. He noted that if the condition worsens, he may need surgery, according to Sputnik Armenia.

The highly anticipated rematch between Tsarukyan and Makhachev was scheduled for January 19, 2025, in Los Angeles. After Tsarukyan withdrew due to injury, Brazilian fighter Renato Moicano stepped in and lost in the first round.

Arman Tsarukyan is 28 years old and has 22 wins in 25 professional fights.