Arman Tsarukyan Demands BMF Fight After UFC Title Snub

UPDATE: UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan is urgently calling for a BMF showdown against Max Holloway following the UFC’s decision to overlook him for an interim lightweight title bout. The announcement came earlier today, confirming that Tsarukyan, currently the No. 1 ranked contender at 155 pounds, will not compete in the highly anticipated title fight on January 24, 2024, in Las Vegas.

Instead, the UFC has chosen to feature a main event between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, ranked Nos. 4 and 5 respectively. This decision has left Tsarukyan feeling sidelined and frustrated, as the UFC creates an interim title due to undisputed champion Ilia Topuria‘s personal time off.

Tsarukyan (23-3) expressed his disappointment in an interview with ESPN, stating, “It’s hard to accept the news, but I can’t sit and wait for the situation to change. It’s a business.” He emphasized his determination to stay active in the sport, saying, “At the end of the day, I have the same goal. Everybody knows that I will beat everybody, and it’s just [a matter of] time.”

In light of this recent snub, Tsarukyan is advocating for a matchup with Holloway, who is coming off a victory against Dustin Poirier. “I hope they give me the BMF title at least. What are they going to give me? Who do we have in our division to fight if it’s not Holloway?” he questioned, indicating a strong desire for high-profile competition.

Tsarukyan also took a moment to voice his opinions on Pimblett, accusing the UFC of fast-tracking him. He stated, “I want Gaethje to put an end to it in January. If you need help, let me know and I’ll fly to you.” His emotions ran high as he added, “I would like to slap him,” expressing his disdain for the rising star.

The stakes are high as the winner of the Gaethje-Pimblett fight is expected to face Topuria later in 2024, potentially delaying Tsarukyan’s title shot for nearly a year. Despite the setback, the 29-year-old remains confident, asserting, “That fight is going to happen for sure. Everybody is saying, ‘Arman, Arman, Arman.’ Everybody knows it’s bulls—. The next champion is here.”

As this story develops, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if the UFC will accommodate Tsarukyan’s request for a BMF fight against Holloway. The implications of this matchup could significantly impact the trajectory of the lightweight division and Tsarukyan’s quest for the championship belt.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing situation in the world of UFC.