Overview
- UFC 324 on Jan. 24 will feature Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title, with unification expected when champion Ilia Topuria returns.
- Dana White told Barstool Sports that Arman Tsarukyan’s weigh-in headbutt of Dan Hooker was "100 percent" a factor in the decision, alongside other concerns.
- Tsarukyan’s record includes a $25,000 fine and nine-month Nevada suspension for striking a fan at UFC 300 and a last-day withdrawal from a scheduled UFC 311 title fight.
- Daniel Cormier questioned passing over Tsarukyan, calling him possibly the best lightweight, while Pimblett argued the fighter’s past conduct justified the snub.
- Tsarukyan has signaled he is willing to serve as the UFC 324 backup and is keeping active outside the Octagon, including grappling commitments.