In a transfer that has baffled many battle followers, the UFC has booked Paddy Pimblett vs. Justin Gaethje for the interim light-weight title at UFC 324, leaving the division’s top-ranked contender, Arman Tsarukyan, on the surface trying in.
Tsarukyan, who prolonged his win streak to 5 with a dominant submission over Dan Hooker in November, is now pressured to observe a title battle he believes he deserves. “It doesn’t make any sense,” Tsarukyan instructed reporters, echoing the sentiment of many within the MMA group. “Actual fighters get neglected. I’m prepared, however I assume they produce other plans.”
make it make sense 🤦🏻♂️
— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) November 28, 2025
Frozen Out of the Title Image
The UFC’s choice has positioned Tsarukyan in a purgatory acquainted to many contenders: too high-ranked for many non-title fights, however not chosen for the championship alternative his report warrants. Because the official #1 contender, his path to gold is presently blocked by a battle he wasn’t supplied.
“I completed Dan Hooker. I’ve crushed everybody they’ve put in entrance of me,” Tsarukyan acknowledged. “What extra do I must do? I’m essentially the most harmful man on this division, they usually comprehend it.”
The frustration is compounded by the character of the bout changing him. Whereas Gaethje is a worthy former interim champion, the inclusion of the favored however less-proven Paddy Pimblett has been seen by many because the UFC prioritising marketability over meritocracy.
Staying Lively Exterior the UFC
Refusing to take a seat idle, Tsarukyan is taking a proactive method. He revealed plans to remain competition-sharp by organising and collaborating in high-level wrestling matches outdoors the UFC’s banner.
“I cannot get sluggish. I cannot get comfy,” he declared. “If the UFC doesn’t have a battle for me, I’ll create my very own competitors. I’m a fighter, not a spectator.”
This isn’t new territory for the Armenian-born fighter. He has beforehand showcased his elite grappling in promotions like Karate Fight and ACBJJ, most notably defeating former UFC champion Benson Henderson. These extracurricular actions maintain his abilities honed and his title related whereas he awaits his overdue shot at UFC gold.
The Ready Sport
For now, Tsarukyan is the necessary challenger in ready. The UFC has confirmed that the winner of Gaethje vs. Pimblett will face undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon his return. This seemingly pushes Tsarukyan’s title shot to late 2026 on the earliest.
It’s a take a look at of persistence for the 28-year-old, whose prime combating years are actually. “My time will come,” he insists, projecting a confidence that belies his irritating place. “They’ll’t keep away from me perpetually. I’ll be right here, I’ll be prepared, and I’ll be higher than ever after they lastly name my title.”
Till that decision comes, Arman Tsarukyan will proceed to coach, compete the place he can, and remind the world why he stays essentially the most formidable puzzle within the UFC’s light-weight division.
