Arman Tsarukyan is focused on reaching the pinnacle of the lightweight division and had a clear prediction about the main event at UFC 324. Although Tsarukyan is a top lightweight contender, his chances at a title shot took a hit last year when he missed the UFC 311 main event against Islam Makhachev on weigh-in day. This misstep allowed Paddy Pimblett to leapfrog him and secure a spot in the interim title fight scheduled for Saturday night.
Unfortunately for Pimblett, he was defeated by the legendary Justin Gaethje in a grueling five-round battle. Despite his resilience, Pimblett couldn’t claim the championship. Just before the fight, a podcast interview resurfaced where Tsarukyan perfectly summarized the outcome.
There is clear tension between Paddy Pimblett and Arman Tsarukyan, as the Brit openly taunts Tsarukyan for losing his title opportunity. Consequently, when discussing UFC 324’s main event, Tsarukyan confidently predicted Pimblett’s defeat. Responding to Daniel Cormier, the former two-division world champion, Tsarukyan explained, “He’s wild, but Gaethje will stay composed during the first two rounds if he feels good and can rely on his experience. Remember how Gaethje handled Rafael Fiziev twice — giving him room in round one but taking control in round two.”
Tsarukyan even foresaw the historic outcome: the first time an American fighter would complete a five-round bout. He said, “The same will happen here, and I believe Justin Gaethje will win by decision.”
Fan Take: Tsarukyan’s insight shows a deep understanding of the division’s dynamics and highlights the intense competition rising within lightweight ranks. This story matters to fight fans because it signals a shifting landscape where perseverance and strategy are redefining what it takes to reach the championship, setting the stage for thrilling future matchups.
