Arman Tsarukyan Accepts Backup Role to Get on Dana White’s Good Books After Title Fight Fumble

UFC top lightweight Arman Tsarukyan is ready to be the backup fighter for Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira at UFC 317.

Arman Tsarukyan Accepts Backup Role to Get on Dana White’s Good Books After Title Fight Fumble

Arman Tsarukyan plans to become the backup for the UFC 317 main event (via Imago)

At the top of the UFC, opportunities are rare and fighters must capitalize on them because success can transform their life overnight. However, the fight game is incredibly uncertain, and fighters often suffer injuries that force them to miss out on big fights. Top UFC lightweight Arman Tsarukyan has experienced the same setback and is currently on the path to redeem himself.

Tsarukyan was recently in Russia, participating in a BJJ grappling tournament hosted by ADXC, where he submitted former Bellator star Patricky Pitbull. Following the bout, the Armenian fighter talked about the vacant lightweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira. When asked about being a potential back-up fighter for UFC 317, Tsarukyan gave a positive update.

I’m not sure if that’s needed but if they offer me that I will definitely back it up. Yes, I will be ready. I’m flying back to the US and will be staying there. So, in case anyone is injured and the UFC asks me, I will say yes. I need to take chances now. I got injured, and the injury was misinterpreted. Now I just need to get back on track, so I’m going to do whatever the UFC tells me to do.

Arman Tsarukyan said after ADXC Grappling bout

Tsarukyan was close to facing pound-for-pound king Islam Makhachev for the UFC lightweight title at the anticipated UFC 311 event. However, only hours before the fight, Tsarukyan injured his back severely and suddenly found himself completely unable to move at all. As a result, Renato Moicano received the unexpected opportunity to fight for the title but ultimately lost via submission.

Before the fight, Tsarukyan was considered a major favorite to defeat Makhachev because of his exceptional wrestling skills and pressure style. After the incident, he received heavy criticism from UFC fans and Dana White stated he won’t get another immediate title opportunity. As a result, the Armenian has consistently called out top lightweights, aiming to reestablish his position in the title contention race.

The fighter initially called for a rematch with Oliveira, but the Brazilian showed more interest in chasing the lightweight title shot. He was also rejected by Ilia Topuria, as the former featherweight champion stated he only wants to fight for UFC gold. This situation forced Tsarukyan to target other top contenders, and it has certainly sparked a new and heated rivalry.

Arman Tsarukyan calls out top lightweight contender

The UFC lightweight division has always been the most stacked, and that tradition of depth and talent continues strongly to this day. Besides the main title contenders, rising stars like Paddy Pimblett have gained momentum and attention within the competitive division. The Scouser most recently TKOed Michael Chandler, which firmly established his reputation as a legitimate and dangerous title threat.

Arman Tsarukyan sends latest threats to Paddy Pimblett
Arman Tsarukyan sends latest threats to Paddy Pimblett (via X)

Pimblett and Arman Tsarukyan have an ongoing rivalry that has led to multiple heated exchanges and deeply personal public remarks. In a recent interview, Pimblett stated that nobody cares about Tsarukyan and claimed he’s not interested in entertaining that fight. Previously, Pimblett accused Tsarukyan of being helped by his wealthy father, and this time, Tsarukyan has delivered a fitting response.

It was obvious you were talking trash with zero intention of backing it up. Your UFC career is built on handouts, hype, and shortcuts to the top.

Arman Tsarukyan via X

Pimblett has often been accused of receiving favoritism, with critics claiming he’s been protected and given favorable matchups. Many believe the UFC promotes him heavily because of his marketability and unique personality rather than pure fighting accomplishments. It would be interesting to see how the ‘Baddy’ responds to these accusations.

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