MMA lightweight star Arman Tsarukyan ended his 19-month layoff in commanding fashion at UFC Qatar today. In the promotion’s debut event in the country, Tsarukyan delivered a performance that exceeded expectations. The No. 1 contender, having learned from past setbacks, made weight without any issues and then stepped into the headliner against the No. 6 contender, Dan Hooker, in a grueling battle. Ahead of the fight, ‘Ahalkalakets’ told fans and the UFC, “I’m going to show a great knockout. I’m going to get my title next.” And, true to his word, he looked ready to back it up in the Octagon.

It’s also worth noting that earlier this year at UFC 311, Dana White had expressed his frustration after Arman Tsarukyan withdrew from a title bout against then-champion Islam Makhachev, saying, “He’s going back to the drawing board,” before getting a second title shot. Now, with his UFC Qatar triumph in the books, the question remains: what’s next for the Armenian-Russian star?

What’s next for Arman Tsarukyan after UFC Qatar?

A No. 1 contender’s goal is clear: a shot at the title. Looking at Arman Tsarukyan’s current standing, he has every right to challenge reigning champion Ilia Topuria. Topuria’s next fight, however, has remained uncertain since winning the belt. Still, it appears Dana White and the UFC matchmakers might be considering a Tsarukyan vs. Topuria matchup, especially after their social media back-and-forth, which included some trash talk. At one point, ‘Ahalkalakets’ even labeled Topuria a “chicken,” while Topuria has expressed interest in facing Paddy Pimblett.

During the face-off between Dan Hooker and Arman Tsarukyan, Ilia Topuria was also present on stage, hinting at potential future matchups. Beyond ‘El Matador’, Paddy Pimblett remains a strong candidate for a title eliminator against the Armenian-Russian star, with the winner possibly earning a shot at Topuria. Another viable option is No. 4 contender Justin Gaethje, who could provide a tough challenge for Tsarukyan before a potential title fight.

(More to come… )