Arman Tsarukyan expects his next fight could be a rematch against a former UFC foe.
Tsarukyan (23-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC) is currently ranked No. 2 behind only interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, who unifies his belt with champ Ilia Topuria in the UFC Freedom 250 main event on June 14 from the White House. Tsarukyan will serve as the official backup for that fight.
The 29-year-old is on a five-fight winning streak, with his past two wins coming over current BMF champion Charles Oliveira (37-11 MMA, 25-11 UFC) and Dan Hooker. He also has remained active by winning numerous grappling matches, most recently defeating Keelon Jimison on Saturday at RAF 9.
“My next fight is the title fight, which is probably in September in L.A.,” Tsarukyan said on his YouTube channel. “But I’m a backup for the White House, too, if someone pulls out or gets hurt. … I may fight him (Oliveira) again.”
Tsarukyan edged out Oliveira by split decision at UFC 300. Oliveira has since gone 3-1, and claimed the BMF title by dominating Max Holloway on the ground at UFC 326.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Arman Tsarukyan hints at September UFC return for a title