Tsarukyan, who extended his win streak to five with a dominant submission over Dan Hooker in November, is now forced to attend a title fight he believes he deserves. “It doesn’t make sense,” Tsarukyan told reporters, echoing the sentiment of many in the MMA community. “Real fighters are overlooked. I’m ready for it, but I think they have other plans.”
make it meaningful 🤦🏻♂️
—Arman Tsarukyan Ufc (@armanufc) November 28, 2025
Frozen from the title image
The UFC’s decision has placed Tsarukyan in a purgatory familiar to many contenders: ranked too high for most non-title fights, but not selected for the championship opportunity his record guarantees. As the official No. 1 contender, his path to gold is currently blocked by a fight he wasn’t offered.
“I finished Dan Hooker. I beat everyone they put in front of me,” Tsarukyan said. “What else do I have to do? I’m the most dangerous man in this division, and they know it.”
The frustration is compounded by the nature of the fight in which he is being replaced. While Gaethje is a worthy former interim champion, the inclusion of the popular but less proven Paddy Pimblett is seen by many as the UFC prioritizing marketability over meritocracy.
Staying active outside of the UFC
Tsarukyan refuses to sit still and opts for a proactive approach. He revealed plans to keep the competition sharp by organizing and participating in high-level wrestling matches outside the UFC banner.
“I’m not going to be slow. I’m not going to get comfortable,” he declared. “If the UFC doesn’t have a fight for me, I create my own competition. I’m a fighter, not a spectator.”
This is not new territory for the Armenian-born fighter. He has previously showcased his elite wrestling skills in promotions such as Karate Combat and ACBJJ, most notably defeating former UFC champion Benson Henderson. These extracurricular activities will help hone his skills and keep his name relevant as he waits for his late chance at UFC gold.
The waiting game
For now, Tsarukyan is the mandatory challenger in line. The UFC has confirmed that the winner of Gaethje vs. Pimblett will face undisputed champion Ilia Topuria on his return. This probably pushes Tsarukyan’s title bid to the end of 2026 at the earliest.
It’s a test of patience for the 28-year-old, whose best fighting years are now. “My time will come,” he insists, exuding a confidence that belies his frustrating position. “They can’t avoid me forever. I’ll be here, I’ll be ready, and I’ll be better than ever when they finally call my name.”
Until that call comes, Arman Tsarukyan will continue to train, compete where he can and remind the world why he remains the most formidable puzzle in the UFC’s lightweight division.
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