Chandler Tsarukyan Callout Exposes the Lightweight Division’s Style War
Michael Chandler calling out Arman Tsarukyan isn’t desperation—it’s recognition that the lightweight division is moving forward without him. The Chandler Tsarukyan matchup represents old-school explosive power versus modern technical pressure. My prediction: Tsarukyan by TKO in round three after Chandler gasses out chasing the moment that never comes.
Makhachev Judo Breakdown: Why He’s Fighting a Different Fight
Everyone wants to talk about Islam Makhachev’s sambo background. It’s the narrative Dana White loves, it’s what every casual fan parrots. Except here’s the thing—if you actually break down Makhachev’s grappling frame by frame, you’re not watching sambo. You’re watching judo.
The grip fighting that neutralized Charles Oliveira. The foot sweeps that created scrambles against Dustin Poirier. The sacrifice throws that would make wrestlers cringe. That’s competition-refined judo adapted for MMA.
The sambo is the finishing layer. The Makhachev judo base is the structural foundation that makes everything else work—and it’s why the lightweight division has no answer right now.
UFC 324 Interim Title: Gaethje vs Pimblett Headlines Paramount Debut
The UFC 324 interim lightweight title fight just got announced, and it’s a fascinating matchup that raises serious questions about the state of the 155-pound division. Justin Gaethje takes on Paddy Pimblett for interim gold on January 24 in Vegas – the first pay-per-view under the new Paramount deal. Ilia Topuria dropped a statement saying he’s stepping away from fighting to deal with personal family matters, including a divorce and custody issues. Max Holloway reached out with support. Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan just dominated Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar, but isn’t in the title picture. The card features six current and former champions, including Kayla Harrison vs Amanda Nunes in what Dana White calls ‘the biggest women’s fight ever.’ Full analysis of the lightweight chaos, the stacked UFC 324 card, and why we’re begging the UFC not to give Kamaru Usman a title shot.