What's Happening?
Former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo has provided insights into why Arman Tsarukyan was not granted a title fight by the UFC. In an exclusive interview, Cejudo stated that Tsarukyan deserved a title shot
but was not given one because he did not fight when the UFC and Dana White needed him to. Cejudo suggested that Tsarukyan should focus on fighting more frequently to improve his skills and position himself better for future opportunities. This comes after Dana White announced an interim UFC lightweight championship bout between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, scheduled for January 25 at UFC 324. The winner of this bout will face Ilia Topuria. Tsarukyan recently defeated Dan Hooker via submission at UFC Fight Night 265, bringing his record to 23 wins and three losses.
Why It's Important?
The decision to bypass Arman Tsarukyan for a title shot highlights the competitive nature of the UFC and the strategic decisions made by its leadership. For fighters like Tsarukyan, the path to a title fight is not only about skill but also about timing and aligning with the organization's needs. This situation underscores the importance of strategic career management for fighters in the UFC, where opportunities can be influenced by factors beyond individual performance. The announcement of the interim championship bout between Gaethje and Pimblett also shifts focus to these fighters, potentially affecting Tsarukyan's standing and future prospects within the lightweight division.
What's Next?
Arman Tsarukyan may need to reassess his strategy and increase his activity in the octagon to regain momentum and improve his chances for a title shot. The upcoming interim championship bout between Gaethje and Pimblett will be crucial, as the winner will face Ilia Topuria, further shaping the lightweight division's landscape. Tsarukyan's future opportunities will likely depend on his ability to capitalize on upcoming fights and maintain a strong performance record. Meanwhile, UFC fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these developments impact the division's dynamics.
