### Arman Tsarukyan's Dominant Return: A New Contender Emerges in the Lightweight Division Arman Tsarukyan made a significant impact in the UFC lightweight division by submitting Dan Hooker in the main event of UFC Qatar, marking his return after a lengthy layoff. This victory not only showcased Tsarukyan's skills but also reignited discussions about his potential title shot against current champion Ilia Topuria. Tsarukyan's performance has garnered the support of notable figures, including Islam Makhachev, who has publicly backed him for a matchup against Topuria next, further intensifying the lightweight title picture. ### Breakdown of Tsarukyan's Recent Fight and Future Prospects 1. **Fight Overview**: - Tsarukyan faced Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar, where he secured a submission victory in the second round, demonstrating his grappling prowess and solidifying his status as a top contender in the lightweight division [https://mmauk.net/2025/11/23/ufc-qatar-results-tsarukyan-submits-hooker-earns-title-shot]. 2. **Impact of the Win**: - This victory ended Tsarukyan's 19-month absence from the Octagon, following a previous withdrawal from a title fight against Islam Makhachev due to injury [https://www.yardbarker.com/mma/articles/whos_next_for_arman_tsarukyan_after_win_against_dan_hooker_at_ufc_qatar/s1_17730_43106671]. - His performance has led to speculation about a title shot against Ilia Topuria, with Makhachev endorsing Tsarukyan for this opportunity [https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-mma-news-arman-tsarukyan-earns-islam-makhachevs-backing-to-face-ilia-topuria-next]. 3. **Future Matchup Considerations**: - Following his win, Tsarukyan expressed a strong desire to fight Topuria, indicating he is ready for a quick turnaround to challenge for the title [https://www.mmafighting.com/ufc/458025/arman-tsarukyan-wants-ilia-topuria-next-finishing-dan-hooker-with-arm-triangle-choke-in-ufc-qatar-main-event]. - The lightweight division is currently buzzing with potential matchups, including Topuria's options against other contenders like Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, making Tsarukyan's claim for a title shot even more compelling [https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-mma-news-who-s-next-for-ilia-topuria-after-arman-tsarukyan-wins-against-dan-hooker-at-ufc-qatar]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Fight Statistics**: - Tsarukyan's victory over Hooker was marked by a dominant grappling display, culminating in a submission via arm-triangle choke [https://www.mmafighting.com/ufc/458025/arman-tsarukyan-wants-ilia-topuria-next-finishing-dan-hooker-with-arm-triangle-choke-in-ufc-qatar-main-event]. - This fight was part of a historic event, being the UFC's debut in Qatar, which added to the significance of Tsarukyan's performance [https://www.yardbarker.com/mma/articles/ufc_qatar_results_tsarukyan_submits_hooker_earns_title_shot/s1_17730_43106671]. ### Conclusion: Tsarukyan's Path Forward 1. **Dominant Performance**: Tsarukyan's submission of Dan Hooker has re-established him as a leading contender in the lightweight division, showcasing his readiness for a title shot. 2. **Support from Peers**: With backing from Islam Makhachev and a clear desire to face Ilia Topuria, Tsarukyan is positioned as a serious threat in the title picture. 3. **Future Matchups**: The lightweight division remains competitive, but Tsarukyan's recent victory and his call-out of Topuria place him at the forefront of potential title challengers. In summary, **Arman Tsarukyan's impressive return to the Octagon has set the stage for a potential title shot against Ilia Topuria, making him a key player in the lightweight division's future** [https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-mma-news-arman-tsarukyan-earns-islam-makhachevs-backing-to-face-ilia-topuria-next].