Renato Moicano in action at the UFC. (Photo: Instagram/UFC)
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding the next challenger for the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg), Renato Moicano came out publicly last Tuesday (26) to give his opinion on Arman Tsarukyan, second place in the category ranking and seen by Khabib Nurmagomedov as one of the biggest challenges for the champion Ilia Topuria, undefeated as an MMA fighter.
See too
In an interview with journalist Laerte Viana on YouTube, Moicano stated that he believes the Armenian is being overestimated by the MMA world. Although he didn't mention Khabib by name, he made it clear that he doesn't see much potential for Tsarukyan in a title fight.
“I don't think Arman Tsarukyan "I'm not as good as people think. I think Topuria would screw him over. I have nothing against Arman, but he's not a guy I'd be friends with," said the Brazilian, who trains with Tsarukyan at American Top Team in Florida.
Renato Moicano believes Ilia Topuria would dominate Arman Tsarukyan and says he'd never want to be friends with Arman.
“I don't think Arman Tsarukyan is as good as people think. I think Topuria would screw him. I have nothing against Arman, but Arman isn't a guy I'd be… pic.twitter.com/G21vVr5TWB
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) August 27, 2025
Besides attending the same gym, the two share a head coach. Marcos Da Matta, known as Parrumpinha, is responsible for a number of UFC athletes at the highest level. When explaining why he doesn't particularly like his training partner, Moicano spoke about Tsarukyan's personality.
"I have nothing against him, but I don't like him either. I think he's arrogant. I don't like people who think they're better than others. You may be better than someone else in some way, but just because you're a better fighter doesn't make you morally better," he concluded.
Renato Moicano replaced Arman Tsarukyan in title fight
Islam makhachev finished Renato Moicano No. UFC 311 (Photo: Instagram)
Away from the octagon since winning Charles of the Bronx by split decision in UFC 300, Tsarukyan had the opportunity to challenge for the title against Islam makhachev earlier this year. However, the Armenian suffered the effects of a back injury during his weight-cutting process and was forced to withdraw from the fight with just a few hours' notice. In this context, Moicano seized the opportunity and faced the Russian, being submitted in the first round with an arm-triangle choke.
You need login To comment.