When opportunity is denied, fighters often create their own — and Arman Tsarukyan is doing exactly that. After being passed over for the upcoming UFC interim lightweight title bout, Tsarukyan has turned his sights toward another prize: the fan-favorite BMF ("Baddest Motherf***er") title. But here’s where things get heated — his frustration isn’t just about missed opportunities; it’s about respect, recognition, and the politics behind matchmaking.
UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan (23-3), currently ranked No. 1 at 155 pounds, was openly stunned when the organization announced that Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett — fighters ranked fourth and fifth — would headline UFC 324 in Las Vegas on January 24 for the interim lightweight belt. The decision came after reigning champion Ilia Topuria revealed he’d be stepping away temporarily for personal reasons. Instead of waiting around for things to shake out, Tsarukyan wants action — specifically, a fight with former featherweight champion Max Holloway for the BMF belt.
“It’s a business,” Tsarukyan told ESPN, his tone calm yet loaded with disappointment. “At the end of the day, I’ll beat everyone in this division; it’s only a matter of time. But if they’re not giving me the title fight, then give me something big — give me the BMF belt. Who else makes sense right now besides Holloway?”
Max Holloway (27-8), fresh off an impressive five-round decision victory against Dustin Poirier in July, has already hinted at a potential matchup with former champ Charles Oliveira. Tsarukyan, however, believes a BMF showdown between him and Holloway would deliver the excitement fans crave — and maybe the fairness the ranking system failed to provide.
The Armenian contender hasn’t held back his thoughts on the situation either. He firmly believes the UFC is strategically boosting Pimblett’s popularity rather than rewarding merit. “The UFC wants to push him up fast,” Tsarukyan said. “But I hope Gaethje shuts that down in January. If he needs help, I’ll even fly out to his camp and help him prepare. I want him to beat that fake guy.” His sharp words didn’t end there — Tsarukyan went as far as admitting he wouldn’t attend UFC 324 because of his temper toward Pimblett: “If I see him, I might slap him.”
The stakes are clear. The winner of Gaethje vs. Pimblett is expected to fight Topuria later in 2026, leaving Tsarukyan potentially sidelined for up to a year despite being the division’s top-ranked fighter. Yet his confidence remains unshaken. “The fight with Topuria is going to happen eventually,” he said. “Everyone knows what’s really going on — the next champion is already here.”
But here’s the question that splits fans and experts alike: Did the UFC make the right call by prioritizing entertainment and marketability over rankings and merit? Or did they snub one of the most deserving contenders in the lightweight division? Drop a comment — does Tsarukyan deserve a title shot now, or is his call for the BMF belt the right move in the meantime?
