Amid the intense preparation for the upcoming UFC Qatar event, a video has emerged showing Arman Tsarukyan undergoing a grueling weight cut, with Khamzat Chimaev offering support. This comes as a potential setback for Tsarukyan, who is set to face Dan Hooker in a highly anticipated grudge match. The winner of this bout will be in line for the 155lb title, currently held by Ilia Topuria.
However, just days before the fight, Hooker has raised doubts about Tsarukyan's condition, suggesting he might be injured. This adds another layer of complexity to the already intense rivalry between the two lightweight rivals. Tsarukyan's recent withdrawal from a title fight against Islam Makhachev due to a back injury has raised concerns about his ability to handle the weight cut. Despite this, he has only missed weight once in his UFC career, and the 155lb cut remains a challenging process for the 29-year-old.
The video of Tsarukyan's weight cut showcases his struggles, with Chimaev, who has also faced weight-cutting challenges, providing comfort and support. As of Thursday evening, Tsarukyan is at 159lbs, needing to shed 3 more pounds before the official weigh-ins. With a history of back injuries, the outcome of this injury and its impact on the upcoming fight remain uncertain.
The UFC community eagerly awaits the results of this high-stakes match, with the potential for a controversial outcome that could shape the future of the lightweight division.
