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Tsarukyan Survived Oliveira Because of THIS
The Case of the Slipping Shorts: How a Wardrobe Malfunction Might Have Changed a UFC Fight
What Happened at UFC 300?
Imagine two of the world’s best lightweight fighters locked in a battle inside the Octagon. Charles Oliveira (a former champion known for his incredible submissions) had Arman Tsarukyan caught in a tight guillotine choke — a move where you wrap your arm around the opponent’s neck and squeeze.
Important Point: A guillotine choke can put someone to sleep or force them to "tap out" (give up) in seconds if applied correctly.
But something unusual happened. While Tsarukyan was desperately trying to escape, his fight shorts slipped down. According to fellow UFC star Dustin Poirier, this wardrobe malfunction is exactly what saved Tsarukyan from tapping out.
Who Is Dustin Poirier and Why Does His Opinion Matter?
- Dustin Poirier is a former interim UFC Lightweight Champion and current **BMF ("Baddest Motherf*er") titleholder
- He’s known for his deep understanding of submissions — especially guillotines (he’s both finished fights with them and escaped them)
- When he breaks down a submission attempt, fighters and fans listen
Poirier’s Breakdown: Step by Step
- Oliveira locked in a deep guillotine choke in the first round
- Tsarukyan started defending by driving his hips down to relieve pressure
- Tsarukyan’s shorts slipped off completely during this movement
- The shorts coming off created space — allowing Tsarukyan to pull his head free
- Oliveira’s guard (leg lock around the body) came loose as a result
- Tsarukyan escaped and went on to win a close split decision
Poirier’s Exact Words: "Coming from a guy who knows how to miss guillotines, he would have got that guillotine if those shorts wouldn’t have slipped off… Cheeks clapping, he would have been tapping."
The Bigger Picture: UFC 300 Results
| Fighter | Record (MMA) | Record (UFC) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arman Tsarukyan | 23-3 | 10-2 | Won by Split Decision |
| Charles Oliveira | 37-11 | 25-11 | Lost |
- This was a lightweight title eliminator — the winner was supposed to get the next title shot
- The fight took place April 2024 at UFC 300
- Many fans and analysts scored the fight for Oliveira
What’s Next? The Rematch Talk
- UFC 331 is targeted for September 19, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles
- Oliveira vs. Tsarukyan rematch has been heavily rumored but not officially announced
- If it happens, expect both men to check their equipment very carefully before walking out
Summary
Dustin Poirier believes Charles Oliveira had Arman Tsarukyan beaten at UFC 300 — until Tsarukyan’s shorts fell off mid-guillotine. The wardrobe malfunction created just enough space for Tsarukyan to escape, survive the round, and eventually win a controversial split decision. With a potential rematch looming at UFC 331, this "shorts incident" has become one of MMA’s most talked-about "what ifs."
FAQ
What is a guillotine choke?
A submission hold where a fighter wraps their arm around the opponent’s neck (like a guillotine blade) and squeezes, cutting off blood flow or air. It forces a tap out or causes unconsciousness.
What does "split decision" mean?
When the three judges don’t agree unanimously. Two judges scored it for Tsarukyan, one for Oliveira. It indicates a very close fight.
Why do fight shorts matter so much?
UFC shorts are designed to stay tight during grappling. If they slip, they can create space for an opponent to escape holds — exactly what Poirier describes happened here.
Has this happened before in UFC history?
Wardrobe malfunctions are rare but not unheard of. However, one directly affecting a submission finish at this level (title eliminator, first round) is extremely unusual.
When will we know if the rematch is official?
The UFC typically announces major fights 8-12 weeks out. With UFC 331 targeted for September 19, 2026, an announcement could come by summer 2026 — if the fight is finalized.
