Alkass Digital
Chael Sonnen recently expressed his doubts about Arman Tsarukyan's decision to pass on the opportunity to fight Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. Tsarukyan, fresh off a victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300, declined the short-notice chance to challenge lightweight champ Makhachev, who ultimately faced Dustin Poirier instead and secured a victory via submission in the fifth round.
Despite Tsarukyan's status as the current No. 1 contender, Makhachev seems to be eyeing other options such as the welterweight title and even a showdown with Conor McGregor, rather than a rematch with Tsarukyan. Sonnen believes that Tsarukyan's refusal may have cost him his shot at the title, highlighting the historical importance of not turning down fights in the UFC.
Sonnen also expressed surprise at the lack of interest from other lightweight contenders in challenging Makhachev or seizing Tsarukyan's spot in the title race. He emphasized the vulnerability of Tsarukyan's position and questioned why no one else in the division has stepped up to either call out Makhachev or pursue Tsarukyan's contender status.
In Sonnen's view, Makhachev's desire for fresh matchups might explain his reluctance to pursue a rematch with Tsarukyan, but he underscores the potential consequences for Tsarukyan's career trajectory.