The number one ranked fighter in the UFC lightweight division, Arman Tsarukyan, commented on the league's decision to give the interim title fight to Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje.
It was previously announced that the lightweight division champion, Ilia Topuria, is putting his career on hold due to family issues, and that he will face the holder of the interim title upon his return to the octagon.
Why didn’t they give me a title fight? This isn’t about Topuria’s family issues – this is the UFC’s game plan. They want to make Paddy a star and line him up for Topuria. They know I can beat everybody. Paddy is easy work, Justin is easy work, Ilia easy work. Islam was hard work but he left, so nobody is on my level in this division right now.
Recall that on November 22 in Doha, Qatar, at UFC Fight Night 265, Tsarukyan defeated Dan Hooker via submission (rear-naked choke) in the second round. He holds a record of 23 wins and three losses.
Paddy Pimblett last stepped into the octagon in April 2025 at UFC 314, defeating Michael Chandler by technical knockout in the third round. He holds a record of 23 wins and three losses.
Justin Gaethje last fought in March 2025 at UFC 313, winning against Rafael Fiziev by unanimous decision. He holds a record of 26 wins and five losses.
