Fans React to Dana White Citing Headbutt as Reason for Arman Tsarukyan’s UFC 324 Title Shot Snub

Arman Tsarukyan’s status as the UFC’s No. 1 lightweight contender positioned him as the clear next challenger for champion Ilia Topuria. That scenario shifted when Topuria stepped away, leading the UFC to book Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for an interim title. UFC CEO Dana White recently revealed the factors surrounding the Armenian being overlooked despite his ranking in the 155-pound division.

Tsarukyan held the No. 1 lightweight ranking for an extended period before briefly dropping to No. 2 following Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate the title. After Makhachev moved up to the welterweight division, Tsarukyan quickly reclaimed the top spot. The 29-year-old further cemented his position with a second-round submission victory via a tight arm triangle choke against Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar.

In the buildup to the Hooker fight, Tsarukyan made headlines after headbutting his opponent during their weigh-in faceoff. The incident raised concerns that the main event could be placed in jeopardy ahead of the fight. Tsarukyan later acknowledged the risk his actions created. When asked recently, White confirmed that the incident did factor into Tsarukyan being passed over for a title opportunity.

100 percent, a lot of things have factored in. Yes.

Dana White via Spinnin Backfist

Dana White says Arman Tsarukyan head-butting Dan Hooker played a factor in him not getting a title shot 😬

(via @SpinninBackfist) pic.twitter.com/ZNcCQN08t1

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 9, 2026

Tsarukyan’s strained relationship with White dates back to an altercation during his walkout at UFC 300, when he struck a fan. The incident resulted in a significant suspension and disciplinary action for the Armenian. It also led to Tsarukyan withdrawing from his scheduled title fight against then-champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 311. These events further damaged trust between Tsarukyan and UFC leadership.

Tsarukyan had previously accepted the consequences of his actions and acknowledged their impact on his UFC trajectory. He stayed active by competing in grappling and wrestling events worldwide under RAF and ACBJJ promotions. During that run, he earned wins over Benson Henderson and Patricky Pitbull. Most recently, he competed in a submission-only bout against Sharaputdin Magomedov under Hype FC.

With his title shot still unresolved, Tsarukyan has directed his attention towards Max Holloway’s BMF belt as a secondary objective. He has indicated that the bout is only of interest if a title opportunity does not materialize. The pivot reflects his intent to remain in high-stakes contention. Dana White’s recent comments made it clear that Arman Tsarukyan’s future remains under scrutiny rather than guaranteed.

Fans react to Dana White’s reason for snubbing Arman Tsarukyan’s title opportunity

Dana White’s remarks struck a chord across the MMA community, with many fans agreeing that accountability mattered regardless of ranking or talent. A section of supporters felt Tsarukyan’s past actions justified the UFC’s hesitation. They argued that professionalism outside the cage carries consequences at the highest level. Several called out the Armenian contender for risking key opportunities.

Other fans pushed back strongly, accusing White of selective enforcement and hypocrisy. They pointed to Conor McGregor’s infamous bus attack during his rivalry with Khabib Nurmagomedov, noting that McGregor continued to receive marquee opportunities. The comparison reignited debate over disciplinary standards, and many questioned why Tsarukyan faced stricter fallout for lesser incidents.

good. he was spoon fed everything his whole life. he needs to learn that there is consequences

— polo (@vintage_polo22) January 9, 2026

Completely valid, Arman has not shown any improvement in his reliability

— D’Sean (@dseanmac) January 9, 2026

Couldn’t believe that was the factor 🤣

— Ksana 🌸 (@KsanaSaysHi) January 9, 2026

Good, that kind of physicality during face-offs is a bad look for the sport. He can go do that in the Russian leagues.

— pot (@PotapenkoIlya) January 9, 2026

Yes my two golden boys can get caught with PED or throw dollys at busses and I’ll give them title shots

— MMAgoof (@MMAgooff) January 9, 2026

Bald fraud ….Connor did this sort of things and still was the favourite …you don't like that guy ,just say it

— KB_Peterson (@KB_Peterson92) January 9, 2026

But conor attacking innocents on a bus played a factor in him getting one?

— starstruck_mma (@starstruck_mma) January 9, 2026

They looking for any excuse so Arman can’t get a title shot😭

— Toxic (@ToxicMMA2) January 9, 2026

Despite the controversy, Arman Tsarukyan remains widely viewed as the most credible challenger in the lightweight division. Fans continue to regard him as the most complete and dangerous stylistic matchup for Ilia Topuria. His skill set, age, and recent performances reinforce that perception. For many, the title picture still feels incomplete without the Armenian star.

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