Arman Tsarukyan Takes a Swipe at the UFC After Being Denied a Title Shot
Arman Tsarukyan, the number one UFC lightweight contender, has expressed his frustration with the UFC after being denied a title shot. Despite his impressive performance in the octagon, Tsarukyan has been overlooked for a title opportunity, and he’s not holding back his feelings about it. In a recent post on Threads, Tsarukyan stated, “Number 1 next to my name for a reason. The belt is just a formality at this point.” This statement is a clear indication that Tsarukyan feels he’s the best lightweight fighter in the UFC, and the championship belt is merely a formality.
Tsarukyan’s frustration stems from being denied a title shot against Ilia Topuria, the current UFC lightweight champion. After securing a Round 2 submission victory against Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar, Tsarukyan called out Topuria, but the champion went on hiatus and showed no interest in fighting him. Instead, the UFC announced an interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, which will headline UFC 324. Tsarukyan then expressed interest in fighting BMF champion Max Holloway, but the UFC disregarded his wish and announced Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira 2 for UFC 326.
Despite the setbacks, Tsarukyan has kept himself busy. He recently won the All-Star Title by submitting Mehdi Baydulaev in a grappling bout at ACBJJ 20. Tsarukyan is also set to face UFC middleweight fighter Sharaputdin Magomedov in a grappling match under the Hype FC banner on December 30. Additionally, he will take on Lance Palmer in a freestyle wrestling match at the RAF 05 event in Amerant Bank Arena, Florida, on January 10, 2026.
Background and Context
Tsarukyan’s journey to the top of the lightweight division has been impressive. He had a title shot earlier this year at UFC 311, but he had to pull out of the fight due to a back injury. Since then, he’s been trying to get back in the good graces of the promotion for a second title shot. However, with the UFC’s decision to crown an interim champion, Tsarukyan’s chances of fighting for the undisputed title anytime soon seem slim.
The soon-to-be crowned interim lightweight champion will face champion Ilia Topuria later in 2026 to unify the titles. Tsarukyan, however, wants to leave no opportunity on the table and has expressed his desire to serve as the official backup for the UFC 324 headliner. If either Pimblett or Gaethje pulls out, Tsarukyan will be ready to step in and fight for the interim title.
Expert Analysis and Opinion
According to MMA experts, Tsarukyan’s frustration is understandable. He’s been one of the most dominant fighters in the lightweight division, and his skills and performance warrant a title shot. The UFC’s decision to overlook him for a title opportunity has raised questions about the promotion’s matchmaking and ranking system.
Some experts believe that Tsarukyan’s statement about the belt being a formality is a sign of his confidence and frustration. He knows he’s the best fighter in the division, and the championship belt is merely a recognition of his skills. Others argue that Tsarukyan’s statement is a sign of disrespect towards the UFC and the current champion, Ilia Topuria.
Regardless of the interpretation, one thing is clear: Arman Tsarukyan is a force to be reckoned with in the UFC lightweight division. His skills, performance, and confidence make him a top contender, and he will stop at nothing to achieve his goal of becoming the undisputed champion.
As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the UFC responds to Tsarukyan’s statement and his desire to fight for the interim title. One thing is certain, however: Arman Tsarukyan is a force to be reckoned with in the UFC lightweight division, and he will stop at nothing to achieve his goal of becoming the undisputed champion.
