Home / Sports / Tsarukyan's TikTok Ghost: Makhachev Filter Haunts Rivalry
Tsarukyan's TikTok Ghost: Makhachev Filter Haunts Rivalry
15 Aug
Summary
- A TikTok filter repeatedly showed Islam Makhachev in Arman Tsarukyan's results.
- The fighters first met in Tsarukyan's UFC debut in April 2019, a close decision loss.
- Tsarukyan withdrew from a title fight against Makhachev due to a back injury.
Arman Tsarukyan recently experienced a humorous glitch on TikTok, where a viral filter consistently displayed Islam Makhachev, a constant reminder of their significant MMA rivalry. This connection dates back to Tsarukyan's UFC debut in April 2019, where he faced Makhachev on short notice and pushed him to a narrow decision.
Makhachev has since ascended to become the UFC lightweight champion and a top pound-for-pound fighter. Tsarukyan, meanwhile, has established himself as a leading contender in the division. Their anticipated title fight at UFC 311 was unfortunately canceled when Tsarukyan withdrew due to a back injury, a decision that drew criticism but which he refuted.
Looking ahead, Tsarukyan is preparing for a pivotal bout against Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331, aiming to solidify his title aspirations. He has expressed a desire for an active fighting schedule upon becoming champion. In parallel, Makhachev is set to compete in a welterweight bout against Ian Machado Garry on August 15, 2026, at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
