Arman Tsarukyan, a top lightweight contender in the UFC, had his sights set on a title shot after defeating Charles Oliveira in April 2024. However, plans for a fight against then-champion Islam Makhachev in January fell through, affecting his immediate title aspirations.
Staying active, Tsarukyan recently competed in grappling, including a match against Makkasharip Zaynukov earlier in the month. His next grappling challenge is against Patricky Pitbull at ADXC in Russia. Pitbull, a Brazilian fighter, views this high-profile grappling match as a chance to significantly advance his mixed martial arts career.
The headlining match at ADXC 10 in Moscow on May 31 features Pitbull taking on Tsarukyan in a grappling contest held at a 176-pound catchweight over five three-minute rounds. The former Bellator champion believes a convincing win against a top UFC fighter like Tsarukyan could potentially lead to an offer from the UFC.
“I believe it`s possible. Nothing is impossible, and I never say never,” Pitbull stated when asked about potentially joining the UFC after a win. “The UFC often looks for fighters with momentum and hype, giving them a chance to showcase their skills. I see this as a great opportunity to perform well and attract attention.”
Pitbull is renowned for his striking power in Bellator, with 11 of his 16 victories in the promotion coming by knockout, including notable wins over Peter Queally, Josh Thomson, and Ryan Couture. He also had success in Japan`s RIZIN promotion, where he finished the current 155-pound champion Roberto Satoshi. However, he is currently on a three-fight losing streak in MMA, with recent losses to Alexander Shabliy, Clay Collard, and Bruno Miranda.
At 39, Pitbull hasn`t secured an MMA victory via submission in 15 years. However, since striking is prohibited in the ADXC grappling match, a submission win is a distinct possibility. Pitbull also mentioned having to make a late adjustment to his strategy upon learning in Russia that leg attacks would not be permitted, reportedly at the UFC`s request to prevent significant injuries.
Describing his approach, Pitbull stated, “If he makes a mistake, I`ll capitalize and attack his neck. I know exactly how to do it. If he leaves himself vulnerable during takedown attempts, I`ll work to frustrate him and counter his long-distance shots by going for his neck or taking his back using quick jiu-jitsu techniques like the berimbolo.”
Pitbull commented further on Tsarukyan`s grappling, saying, “He`s displayed more of his grappling ability in his MMA fights compared to his recent Karate Combat grappling match. I even believe he lost that Karate Combat match despite being awarded the win. In his fight against Charles Oliveira, he showed good defense against guillotine and arm-triangle chokes. He`s a tough and durable opponent.”
A victory at ADXC is crucial for Pitbull to revitalize his MMA career, especially after the Global Fight League promotion he signed with failed before its debut event. While he is optimistic about potentially receiving a UFC offer, he remains open to returning to Japan for another stint with RIZIN.
Pitbull revealed he`s already exploring options for future fights in Japan, stating, “I`m in talks with people there about potential bookings.” He highlighted his successful 3-1 record in RIZIN, which includes knockout wins against Satoshi, Tatsuya Kawajiri, and Luiz Gustavo. “Japanese fans appreciate me because I defeated their champion. Returning would be another excellent opportunity to perform at my best. I beat the champion, and I had issues with Kleber Koike, so going back and fighting there again makes sense. Perhaps I could even contend for a title in the future.”
