Overview
- UFC 324 on January 24 will crown an interim lightweight champion with Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett, bypassing No. 1 contender Arman Tsarukyan.
- Tsarukyan told Ariel Helwani he believes the promotion is building Pimblett and would avoid matching them, warning a Pimblett win could push his title shot into late 2026 or 2027.
- UFC leadership has pointed to trust and conduct concerns after Tsarukyan’s UFC 311 miss weight withdrawal, a UFC 300 walkout punch that drew a $25,000 fine and nine-month Nevada suspension, and a weigh-in headbutt with Dan Hooker.
- Chael Sonnen and Daniel Cormier publicly urged the UFC to forgive Tsarukyan and reward his backup duty at UFC 317, while Dana White has said he does not dislike Tsarukyan and has supported him behind the scenes as his contract was reportedly improved.
- Staying active outside the Octagon, Tsarukyan won an ACBJJ title on December 17 and a RAF wrestling bout over Lance Palmer on January 10, and he says he would take a BMF fight or even consider featherweight later, though his priority remains the undisputed lightweight belt.