Overview
- Dana White announced Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on Jan. 24 in Las Vegas, with the winner expected to face champion Ilia Topuria in 2026.
- Arman Tsarukyan, widely viewed as the top lightweight contender, criticized the decision as business over sport and said he wants a BMF title fight, naming Max Holloway as his preferred opponent.
- Tsarukyan argued the UFC is elevating Pimblett’s profile and questioned recent rankings movement, while dismissing a Charles Oliveira rematch as unnecessary.
- White has previously said Tsarukyan missed weight before a scheduled title fight and has indicated he will not receive another immediate title opportunity.
- Separately, Tsarukyan’s teammate Shovkhal Churchaev was filmed attacking streamer Subhan Mamedov during a Dubai livestream, the streamer reported the incident to police, Churchaev reportedly left with $30,000 and later posted that he traveled to Malaysia, and a defense attorney warned UAE law can carry fines and prison for public bodily harm.