Arman Tsarukyan reacts after UFC bypasses him in the lightweight title race

Top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has commented on the UFC’s decision to book an interim title fight without his involvement. The move comes after current champion Ilia Topuria announced a short-term break due to personal circumstances.

In Topuria’s absence, the promotion revealed that an interim title bout between Justin Gaethje (#4) and Paddy Pimblett (#5) will headline UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas. The announcement immediately sparked heated debate among analysts and fans — many expected Tsarukyan to receive the opportunity, especially after his dominant November win over Dan Hooker, which further solidified him as the division’s leading contender.

Despite visible frustration among supporters, Tsarukyan responded calmly yet confidently. On social media, he wrote:

“Nothing changes. We will take what belongs to us. Everything in its own time. Patience and hard work will pay off.”

Meanwhile, criticism of the newly announced title fight continues to mount. Pimblett still lacks wins over top-5 opponents, and Gaethje has earned only one victory since his loss to Max Holloway. Against this backdrop, the UFC’s decision to bypass the division’s number-one contender appears particularly surprising.

Earlier reports indicated that after successfully defending his belt, Ilia Topuria is considering moving to a different weight class — a development that further intensifies the battle for a potentially vacant title.

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