Arman Tsarukyan criticized Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett‘s performances at UFC 324, claiming he could have defeated either fighter, while expressing interest in facing Gaethje for the interim title, especially if Ilia Topuria remains unavailable.
Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett delivered a thrilling battle in UFC 324’s main event, captivating fans. Yet, not everyone was impressed. Arman Tsarukyan, a top lightweight contender, watched from cageside and felt confident he could have defeated either fighter to claim the interim title.
Despite a five-fight win streak and a top ranking at 155 pounds, Tsarukyan remains sidelined from the title picture. A fight week injury back in January 2025 prevented him from facing then-champion Islam Makhachev, leaving him frustrated and eager for his next opportunity.
While awaiting his next fight, Tsarukyan didn’t hold back in criticizing Gaethje and Pimblett’s performances. “I told everybody Justin would win by decision,” he stated during the post-fight show. Tsarukyan questioned Pimblett’s strategy, noting his inability to effectively box or wrestle Gaethje. “He’s just a little bit young,” Tsarukyan remarked, calling Pimblett a “trash can.”
Tsarukyan believes that if he or Ilia Topuria had faced Gaethje, the fight would have been different. “If I fight with Justin? I’ll choke him out in the second round,” he confidently declared. Despite Gaethje’s impressive performance and his 10th Fight of the Night award, Tsarukyan feels Gaethje is past his prime.
“He’s just not in his prime anymore,” Tsarukyan said, pointing out Gaethje’s age and recent losses. He criticized Gaethje for allowing Pimblett to survive after multiple knockdowns, suggesting Gaethje should have finished the fight.
“[Gaethje] has no chin,” Tsarukyan commented, noting Gaethje’s vulnerability when clipped by Pimblett. Tsarukyan speculated that Gaethje’s game plan was to win by decision, questioning why he didn’t finish the fight despite numerous opportunities.
Tsarukyan’s place in the title picture remains uncertain. With Gaethje holding the interim title, a fight with Topuria is anticipated, but Topuria’s personal issues have delayed any concrete plans. Tsarukyan expressed his desire to face Gaethje if Topuria can’t fight soon.
“If Ilia can fight this year, they’ll fight together, but if not, I’d like to fight Gaethje,” Tsarukyan said. He remains hopeful for his chance at the title, despite past setbacks.
In a surprising twist, Tsarukyan suggested a scenario where Topuria leaves the division, opening the door for a fight with Gaethje. “I think I’ll fight with Gaethje and Topuria is going to fight for the 170 title,” he speculated. Only time will tell how the lightweight landscape will unfold.