With Ilia Topuria sidelined, the UFC has scheduled an interim lightweight title fight between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje, causing controversy as Arman Tsarukyan, who is ranked higher, is overlooked due to past incidents and a missed fight opportunity.
With lightweight champ Ilia Topuria on the sidelines due to personal issues, the UFC quickly set up an interim title fight. Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje will face off in his absence.
This bout headlines UFC 324, marking the promotion’s debut under a massive $7.7 billion deal with Paramount. Yet, the decision to bypass Arman Tsarukyan has stirred controversy, as he watches from the sidelines while lower-ranked fighters get their shot.
UFC CEO Dana White insists Tsarukyan missed his chance after a last-minute injury prevented him from fighting Islam Makhachev in January 2025. Pimblett, however, suggests there’s more to the story.
“It’s just how it turned out,” Pimblett explained about his title opportunity. With Ilia out and Arman sidelined, the choice fell to him and Gaethje. Meanwhile, Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira are battling for the ‘BMF’ belt.
Critics argue neither Pimblett nor Gaethje deserves the title shot. Yet, Pimblett points to his winning streak and Gaethje’s legendary status as justification. “We’re not causing chaos outside the cage,” he added, taking a jab at others.
The “certain d*ckhead” Pimblett mentioned? Clearly Tsarukyan. His suspension after a fan altercation and a weigh-in headbutt didn’t help his case.
White’s stance against Tsarukyan is partly due to his withdrawal from the Makhachev fight. The headbutt incident also played a role in his being overlooked.
Pimblett, however, isn’t shying away from a future clash with Tsarukyan, especially if Topuria stays inactive. “People saying I’m ducking Arman annoy me,” he said, denying any fight offer with Tsarukyan.
“If Ilia’s out by June/July, strip him,” Pimblett declared. He’s ready to defend against Tsarukyan, Holloway, Oliveira, or anyone else. No hesitation.
First, though, Pimblett must face Gaethje on Jan. 24. Only then can he consider future matchups with Topuria, Tsarukyan, or whoever the UFC lines up next.