Tsarukyan backs Nurmagomedov to beat every UFC lightweight except himself

UFC’s top-ranked lightweight Arman Tsarukyan has declared that Usman Nurmagomedov, the undefeated former PFL champion now the most coveted free agent in MMA, would beat nearly every fighter in the UFC’s 155-pound division — current champion Justin Gaethje included. The one exception, Tsarukyan made clear, is himself.

Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Tsarukyan was candid about the threat Nurmagomedov (22-0) would pose if he makes the widely anticipated move to the UFC. “He can beat a lot of guys in our division because, stylistically, he’s so good,” Tsarukyan said. “He can wrestle; he can strike. But there are tough guys too, so let’s see. Because in PFL there is no competition.”

When pressed, Tsarukyan confirmed his belief that Nurmagomedov would get the better of Gaethje, adding: “Almost, yes — I think he beats almost everyone in the division except me.”

Despite the high praise, Tsarukyan did identify a handful of fighters who could make life difficult for the Dagestani. He pointed to surging contender Quillan Salkilld — “the guy who choked out Gamrot… that guy is good” — and former champion Charles Oliveira as potential threats. “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,” Tsarukyan said.

Nurmagomedov most recently fought out his PFL contract by defending his lightweight title against Archie Colgan, and his next destination remains unconfirmed. Tsarukyan, however, is not waiting around for that conversation to develop. “I’ve got to do my work, become a champion, and then we can talk,” he said.

Tsarukyan’s next step toward that goal comes at UFC 331, where he faces Mauricio Ruffy in a bout that could further cement his case for a title shot against Gaethje.