Arman Tsarukyan caught practicing Islam Makhachev's favorite submission in social media video

I. Makhachev (left) defeated A. Tsarukyan (right) in 2019 at UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Even though he is ranked first in the lightweight category (up to 70,3 kg), Arman Tsarukyan does not seem to be the first choice for the next title challenger. Even so, the Armenian continues to develop his finishing game, including the trademark Islam makhachev. In a video published on social media this Tuesday (22), the fighter was seen training the hand triangle, known abroad as maple choke.

See too

UFC Champion Speaks Out About Charles do Bronx vs. Ilia Topuria: 'It Would Be Stupid'

UFC champion points out favorite between Carlos Prates and Ian Garry: 'he knows how to win'

Undefeated Russian with no UFC wins on the fast track promises to 'break' Volkanovski in title fight

Arman tries to lock in the D'Arce just like Islam makhachev pic.twitter.com/9bPfKBUhFU

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 22, 2025

The strike is a specialty of Makhachev, whose last two title defenses (against Dustin poirier e Renato Moicano) were ended with a choke. After his triumph against the American, the champion even stated that the submission is one of his favorite moves.

I. Makhachev defeated R. Moicano in the UFC 311. Photo: Reproduction/X

PUBLICITY:

Tsarukyan faced Makhachev in UFC debut

Islam makhachev in face with Arman Tsarukyan. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Arman Tsarukyan e Islam makhachev they faced each other for the first time in his Ultimate debut, in April 2019. At the time, the American Top Team member was just 22 years old.

After almost six years, the Armenian would have the opportunity to avenge the setback in UFC 311, when fighting for the belt against the Russian. However, he injured his back a few hours before the weigh-in and was unable to compete. He was replaced by Renato Moicano and has not performed for over a year, when he won Charles of the Bronx by split decision.