BREAKING: UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan is urgently calling for a BMF title fight against Max Holloway following a controversial decision by the UFC to bypass him for an interim title shot. The announcement comes as the UFC prepares for an interim lightweight championship bout featuring Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, scheduled as the main event of UFC 324 on January 24, 2026, in Las Vegas.
Tsarukyan, currently the No. 1 ranked contender at 155 pounds with a record of 23-3, expressed his disappointment over the UFC’s decision to prioritize Gaethje and Pimblett, who rank fourth and fifth, respectively. The interim title was created after undisputed champion Ilia Topuria announced he would be taking time off for personal reasons.
“It’s hard to accept the news,” Tsarukyan told ESPN. “But I can’t sit and wait for the situation to change. It’s a business. At the end of the day, I have the same goal. Everybody knows that I will beat everybody; it’s just a matter of time.” He added, “I hope they give me the BMF title at least. What are they going to give me? Who do we have in our division to fight if it’s not Holloway?”
Holloway, with a record of 27-8, recently secured a five-round decision win against Dustin Poirier in July and has shown interest in a match against former champion Charles Oliveira. Tsarukyan believes that the UFC is favoring Pimblett’s rapid rise, expressing his hope that Gaethje can thwart this in their upcoming clash.
“Justin, if you need the help, let me know and I’ll fly to you,” Tsarukyan stated. “I want him to beat that bulls— guy. I hate him. He’s such a b—-. I don’t want to be at UFC 324 because I’m going to fight with somebody. If I see Paddy, I would like to slap him.” His words reflect the frustration many in the MMA community feel regarding the promotional dynamics at play.
The winner of the January interim title fight is expected to challenge Topuria later in 2026, which could mean Tsarukyan faces a lengthy wait for his next shot at the title. Despite this, Tsarukyan remains optimistic. “That fight is going to happen for sure,” he asserted. “Everybody is saying, ‘Arman, Arman, Arman.’ Everybody knows it’s bulls—. The next champion is here.”
As the situation develops, fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching how the UFC will navigate these complex dynamics within its lightweight division. Will Tsarukyan get his chance to face Holloway? Or will the interim title fight alter the landscape entirely?
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as we continue to track Tsarukyan’s pursuit of the BMF title and his future in the UFC.
