Arman Tsarukyan is hoping to score the next lightweight title shot
with a victory over Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 later this month in Los Angeles. Rightly so, since current 155-pound titleholder, Justin Gaethje, admitted Tsarukyan was more deserving than Ilia Topuria, who lost the title to “The Highlight” at UFC White House back in June.UFC CEO, Dana White, remains unconvinced.
“I hate to say that [it’s a No. 1 contender fight] until it’s over,” White told Sports Central LA about Tsarukyan vs. Ruffy.
“Arman says a lot of things. Arman and I have had a nice little run here. Listen, let’s see how this fight plays out.”
Here’s the clip:
Tsarukyan (23-3) is ranked one spot below Topuria (17-1) at No. 2 in the official lightweight rankings.
Despite his ongoing issues with White and Co., stemming from the UFC 311 fiasco back in early 2025, Tsarukyan, 29, can probably seal the deal with a highlight-reel finish over Ruffy at UFC 331. After all, Gaethje already avenged his losses to Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira.
To see who else is fighting at UFC 331 on Paramount+ click here.
