Daniel Cormier named opponent and fight date for Arman Tsarukyan

If Arman Tsarukyan doesn’t become Islam Makhachev’s next opponent, the Russian lightweight should have a contender’s fight with Dustin Puryear in April, former two-weight UFC champion Daniel Cormier believes.

“I think the following needs to happen – if Islam fights in the first quarter of next year, Arman Tsarukian needs to set up a fight with Dustin Porye at UFC 300,” Cormier said on the regular edition of his analysis program on ESPN. “Dustin was just saying he wants to take part in that event. UFC 300 takes place in April, and Tsarukyan could share the octagon with Makhachev at the end of the year if he does indeed fight three fights as he plans. That’s all assuming Arman can beat one of the biggest names and get past Puryear”

“If not, Dustin Puryear will be able to claim the title after Justin Gaethje. That brings some stability to the division. We often see guys today saying they’re willing to sit idle and wait a year. Arman Tsarukian said, ‘If I don’t fight next for the title, then I’ll face someone else, and if it’s not enough, I’ll fight again.’ He doesn’t care. He’ll fight again and again until he becomes the undisputed contender and gets a chance to be the champion’

“Dustin Porier isn’t afraid of anything and if he’s given this fight, he’ll take it. He’s a chain dog, a real animal, so he’ll take the fight and it will be an awesome addition to UFC 300.”

Last weekend, Arman Tsarukyan knocked out Benil Dariush at the 64th second of the fight and moved up to number four in the UFC lightweight rankings, becoming one of the participants in the contender race.

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