LAS VEGAS – Arman Tsarukyan thinks it’s time he gets matched up with the upper echelon of the lightweight division. Tsarukyan (19-3 MMA, 6-2 UFC) returned to the win column when he defeated Damir Ismagulov by unanimous decision in this past Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 216 co-main event at the UFC Apex. After handing Ismagulov his first octagon loss, Tsarukyan is targeting former champion Charles Oliveira or streaking top contender Beneil Dariush next. “It’s a big fight for me and a big name,” Tsarukyan told MMA Junkie and other reporters of Ismagulov backstage. “Yeah, he’s not in the top five, but he’s tougher than top fighters.” He continued, “I would like to have my next fight (against) Charles Oliveira or (Beneil) Dariush, because I deserve to have a big name. They don’t have a fight now, and I’m ready.” Related Drew Dober calls Bobby Green knockout 'something special,' explains Jalin Turner callout Amir Albazi: I hope UFC Fight Night 216 showed 'I'm ready for the top five, I'm ready for that belt' The win over Ismagulov was big for Tsarukyan, but Ismagulov doesn’t carry the ranking that will elevate the 26-year-old to title contention
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