Continuing with the big preview of UFC 300, there’s another lightweight match on the card. It’s between Charles Oliveira, a seasoned MMA veteran, and Arman Tsarukyan, a grisly fighter. After all, people just can’t get enough lightweight bouts, right?
The thing about this match is not many people are talking about it. But why should fans get excited about this fight? What makes the two fighters stand out? Let’s break out the tape and dive into this secret match.
The Tape on Charles Oliveira
Charles Oliveira has been around the block and back. The 34-year-old boasts a record of 34-9 overall with 21 submissions. The Brazilian star was also a former UFC lightweight champion, taking down the likes of Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier.
A major hallmark of Oliveira’s fighting style is his submissions. Taking down known names such as Gaethje and Poirier has prepped Oliveira for the big moment. In turn, being able to deliver a timely hold and put his opponent in a compromising position has made Charles Oliveira a threat.
The Tape on Arman Tsarukyan
Arman Tsarukyan isn’t your typical lightweight. He’s a force to be reckoned with, relying on his mixed styles to stymie and overwhelm opponents. That’s what makes the Armenian fighter 21-3 with nine knockouts.
The 27-year-old is great at avoiding takedowns, stopping them with 75% accuracy. Compared to Oliveira, Tsarukyan loves to grapple more. He performs 3.4 takedowns every 15 minutes compared to Oliveira’s 2.32.
Who Wins and Why
One thing that stands out about Charles Oliveira is his inability to defend himself compared to Arman Tsarukyan. With a significant strike defense of 51% and a takedown defense of 55%, it leaves him open to the Armenian fighter.
However, Charles Oliveira should win this match-up based on his submission expertise and experience alone. This can go either way, with Tsarukyan’s fighting style being problematic. But the former champion should take care of business with a timely submission. Oliveira should get a future title shot with a victory.
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