UFC’s Recent Matchmaking Decisions Spark Controversy
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has been facing criticism for its recent matchmaking decisions. One of the most notable controversies surrounds Armenian fighter Arman Tsarukyan, who was denied a second title shot despite his impressive win against Dan Hooker at UFC 317. According to UFC CEO Dana White, Tsarukyan’s headbutting incident with Hooker during the ceremonial weigh-ins played a significant role in the promotion’s decision.
Tsarukyan’s victory over Hooker was expected to be a title eliminator bout, with the winner earning a shot at the lightweight championship. However, the UFC opted to schedule an interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett instead, which will headline UFC 324 on January 24. This decision has left many fans questioning the promotion’s logic, as Tsarukyan’s win over Hooker was seen as a dominant performance.
Tsarukyan’s Past Withdrawal and Recent Incident
Tsarukyan’s withdrawal from the UFC 311 title fight against then-lightweight champion Islam Makhachev was also cited as a reason for the UFC’s decision. The Armenian fighter had been scheduled to face Makhachev for the title but pulled out due to undisclosed reasons. This incident, combined with the recent headbutting incident with Hooker, has seemingly damaged Tsarukyan’s reputation with the UFC.
In an interview with Robbie Fox, Dana White confirmed that Tsarukyan’s headbutting incident with Hooker did indeed play a factor in the UFC’s decision not to give him another title shot. White stated, “100% [Arman Tsarukyan headbutting Dan Hooker at the weigh-in played a factor in him not getting a UFC title shot] A lot of things have factored in.” This statement suggests that the UFC takes incidents like these seriously and will consider them when making decisions about future title shots.
Tsarukyan Offers to Serve as Backup for Gaethje vs. Pimblett
Despite being denied a title shot, Tsarukyan has expressed his willingness to serve as a backup fighter for the Gaethje vs. Pimblett bout. At the ACBJJ 20 presser, Tsarukyan stated, “Even if it’s 10 days before or 5 days, I’ll be accepting the fight. I’ll have my weight checked and be in shape. I’ll train, spar, and I’ll try not to get injured when I’m sparring. But I will push myself. I will celebrate New Year’s in Armenia, then I’ll go to Las Vegas for the Pimblett vs Gaethje fight. It’s not easy, our weight is not easy, but I’ll be ready.” This offer demonstrates Tsarukyan’s commitment to being prepared and willing to step in on short notice if needed.
As the UFC continues to face criticism for its matchmaking decisions, it will be interesting to see how Tsarukyan’s situation plays out. Will he eventually earn another title shot, or will the UFC continue to overlook him in favor of other contenders? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Tsarukyan is determined to prove himself and earn a shot at the lightweight championship.
