Here’s a bold statement: Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 1-ranked UFC Lightweight, isn’t just sitting on the sidelines—he’s ready to pounce if the opportunity arises. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett are set to battle for the interim 155-pound title at UFC 324 in Las Vegas, Tsarukyan is positioning himself as the ultimate backup plan. And this is the part most people miss—he’s not just waiting; he’s training like the fight is already his.
Alexander Behunin, MMAmania.com’s social media guru and live event coverage specialist, breaks it down: Tsarukyan isn’t officially on the card, but he’s made it crystal clear he’s ready to step in if either Gaethje or Pimblett is forced out. Speaking to reporters after a grappling match in Russia, Tsarukyan didn’t hold back. When asked if he had a preference between the two fighters, he bluntly stated, ‘Honestly, they are both punching bags.’ Bold words, right? But he didn’t stop there. He explained, ‘You still have to prepare for punching bags like it’s a title fight because anything can happen. But I can see they’re not on my level. That’s why I’m not fighting this time. If I were weaker, I’d definitely be there.’
Tsarukyan’s confidence isn’t just talk—it’s backed by action. He’s staying in peak condition, ensuring he’s ready to step into the Octagon at a moment’s notice. ‘If any of them gets injured, I’ll take the fight,’ he declared. ‘The UFC didn’t announce a backup fighter, but if they call me a week—or even two or three weeks before—I’ll be ready.’
For now, Tsarukyan seems boxed out of the immediate title picture. Gaethje and Pimblett are expected to unify the Lightweight belt against champion Ilia Topuria in 2026, assuming Topuria’s personal hiatus doesn’t extend longer than anticipated. But here’s the twist: if Topuria remains sidelined, Tsarukyan could find himself right back in contention for an interim title defense—even if UFC CEO Dana White insists he needs to ‘work his way back.’
This path likely means fewer grappling showcases and more cage fights, especially after Tsarukyan’s dominant second-round stoppage of Dan Hooker in his last Octagon appearance. So, while he may not be headlining UFC 324, Tsarukyan is far from forgotten. The question is: Do you think Tsarukyan deserves a shot at the title sooner rather than later? Or should he wait his turn? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
