UFC American lightweight Beneil Dariush believes that Arman Tsarukyan will have a chance of defeating champion Islam Mahchev, but only at the start of the fight.
"In the fight against Porier, Makhachev showed the same weaknesses as in the fight against Volkanovski. Islam is getting slower every round, but the problem is that Arman is also slowing down, and even more so than Makhachev.
I think Islam's main advantages are his takedown defense and his patience. I think he's more economical with his energy. And that will be the deciding factor. I think the fight will go to the late rounds and Makhachev will win. By decision or a late finish. Arman's chance is to win early in the fight. Tsarukyan is an explosive guy, he can win by knockout or submission. But in general - it will be difficult for him to win in a 5-round fight," - quotes Dariush MMA Mania.