Arman Tsarukyan, the rising star of the UFC lightweight division, is gearing up for a pivotal showdown against Charles Oliveira, scheduled for April 13 at UFC 300. As the anticipation builds, Marcos daMatta, Tsarukyan’s coach at American Top Team, has made a surprising declaration: he believes Charles Oliveira, also known as the ‘Magician’, poses a greater threat to Tsarukyan than the current UFC champion, Islam Makhachev.
The Insights from Coach DaMatta
DaMatta, a seasoned coach under the tutelage of legendary grappler Carlson Gracie, shared his perspective on why Oliveira presents a more formidable challenge for Tsarukyan compared to Makhachev. Speaking on MMA Fighting’s Trocação Franca podcast, daMatta emphasized Oliveira’s track record of finishing fights, labeling him as a dangerous adversary with a penchant for knockout victories and submissions. Contrasting Oliveira’s aggressive style, DaMatta pointed out Makhachev’s tendency towards decision wins, suggesting that Oliveira’s finishing ability makes him a more menacing opponent.
The Praise for Oliveira’s Skill and Character
Beyond Oliveira’s fighting prowess, daMatta expressed admiration for the Brazilian’s character, describing him as “a wonderful human being.” Additionally, DaMatta credited Oliveira as the best submission artist in UFC history, placing him above esteemed names like Royce Gracie and Demian Maia.
Tsarukyan’s Path to Contention
Reflecting on Tsarukyan’s journey, DaMatta highlighted the Armenian fighter’s impressive performance against Beneil Dariush, securing a knockout victory that catapulted him into the top contender spot. Despite acknowledging the challenges ahead, DaMatta affirmed his commitment to preparing Tsarukyan for the upcoming battle, recognizing the tough road that lies ahead against Oliveira.
Confidence in Tsarukyan’s Evolution
Looking ahead, DaMatta expressed confidence in Tsarukyan’s growth since his previous encounter with Makhachev in 2019. With Tsarukyan’s expanded skill set in striking and jiu-jitsu, daMatta envisions a competitive rematch against Makhachev should Tsarukyan emerge victorious against Oliveira.
The Strategic Approach
DaMatta’s insights extend beyond mere analysis; they inform his coaching strategy for Tsarukyan’s upcoming bout. Recognizing Oliveira’s proficiency in submissions, daMatta emphasizes the importance of Tsarukyan’s defensive grappling and counter-attacking abilities. Through rigorous training and meticulous preparation, daMatta aims to equip Tsarukyan with the tools necessary to neutralize Oliveira’s strengths and capitalize on any openings presented during the fight.
The Impact of Coaching Philosophy
At the heart of DaMatta’s coaching philosophy lies a deep sense of dedication to his fighters’ success. Beyond technical instruction, daMatta instills values of perseverance, resilience, and sportsmanship in his athletes, shaping them into well-rounded competitors both inside and outside the Octagon. This holistic approach reflects DaMatta’s belief in the transformative power of martial arts, transcending mere physical combat to encompass personal growth and development.
A Testament to Tsarukyan’s Determination
As Tsarukyan prepares to step into the Octagon against Oliveira, his journey symbolizes the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. From his humble beginnings to his ascent as a top-ranked contender, Tsarukyan’s story resonates with the values of hard work, discipline, and unwavering dedication. Guided by the expertise and guidance of coach DaMatta, Tsarukyan embodies the spirit of a true warrior, ready to overcome any challenge in his quest for greatness.
