Arman Tsarukyan believes Paddy Pimblett is being pushed by the UFC for a title fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 to build Pimblett as a star, despite Tsarukyan being the top contender and having a contentious history with Pimblett.
Arman Tsarukyan has a theory about why Paddy Pimblett is getting a title shot at UFC 324. “The Baddy” is set to face Justin Gaethje in the main event on January 24, with an interim lightweight title up for grabs. Tsarukyan thinks the UFC is pushing Pimblett as a star.
Despite being the No. 1 contender at 155 pounds, Tsarukyan was overlooked in favor of Gaethje vs. Pimblett. The winner is expected to challenge undisputed champion Ilia Topuria when he returns from a break. After defeating Lance Palmer at RAF 5 in Florida, Tsarukyan shared his thoughts with reporters.
“Everybody knows they want to make Pimblett a champion,” Tsarukyan said. He believes if they matched him against Pimblett, the star power would fizzle out. “Gaethje is easy money for him,” he added, suggesting Gaethje’s nearing the end of his career.
Tsarukyan and Pimblett’s rivalry is no secret, with both taking jabs at each other. Pimblett even wished for Tsarukyan to get injured in his RAF match. “Yeah, he wants me hurt because I’m a nightmare for him,” Tsarukyan responded. He hopes Gaethje will knock Pimblett out, sending him back to England.
With UFC 324 approaching, Tsarukyan is ready to step in if needed. His last octagon appearance was a dominant submission win over Dan Hooker. Outside the octagon, he stays active in grappling competitions, keeping himself in top shape.
“I’m here,” Tsarukyan stated. “If UFC needs me, I’ll jump in and fight.” He’s prepared to cut weight and compete on short notice. Tsarukyan was initially set to fight Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 311. However, a back injury forced him out, impacting his standing with matchmakers.
His situation wasn’t helped when he headbutted Hooker during a faceoff, risking another fight. “It’s just my guess,” Tsarukyan said about why he might be in the UFC’s bad books. He hasn’t spoken directly to Dana White or UFC executives but plans to visit Vegas to discuss his future.
“We’ll see what they say,” Tsarukyan concluded, suspecting his past actions might be holding him back.