Arman Tsarukyan, a contender in the lightweight division of the UFC, has expressed his desire to know the results of the interim title fight between Justin Gathje and Paddy Pimblett on January 24th. Tsarukyan says that he is rooting for Gaethje to win because the outcome of the fight will have a major impact on the pathway to a potential title shot for himself. The interim title fight will also be important to Tsarukyan's title ambitions since current Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria is stepping away from fighting for personal reasons, and this fight will help determine who will fight for the undisputed title next.
Arman Tsarukyan explains his preference for Justin Gaethje
Arman Tsarukyan has been open about his reasons for supporting Gaethje. He thinks that if Gaethje is crowned interim champion, he will fight Tsarukyan without hesitation. Tsarukyan believes that Gaethje represents the toughest opponent available and is a direct route to earning a title shot based on the rankings.
While Arman Tsarukyan has been clear about why he supports Gaethje, he has contrasting views about why he believes that if Pimblett wins, his celebrity status may help him avoid some dangerous fights in favor of greater financial opportunities.
In Tsarukyan's view, if this happens, the division will slow down, and title shots will not be given to deserving fighters.
By having Gaethje win, Tsarukyan believes that the lightweight title picture will be based on merit and not on momentum.
Arman Tsarukyan BRUTALLY HONEST On Justin Gaethje vs Paddy Pimblett, Islam Makhachev, Ilia Topuria
Michael Chandler also backs Justin Gaethje over Paddy Pimblett
Like Arman Tsarukyan, Michael Chandler thinks that Justin Gaethje will defeat Paddy Pimblett in their title fight. While Chandler believes that Paddy Pimblett is a better fighter than most fans think, he believes that Gaethje has experience and toughness as well as a proven track record, separating him from Pimblett as a fighter.
Michael Chandler said that Justin Gaethje is at a different level of competition, whereas Paddy Pimblett is still developing. As the lightweight division waits for Ilia Topuria to return, the outcome of the Gaethje vs. Pimblett fight will have a considerable impact on the title picture and will directly affect Arman Tsarukyan's chances to win a title.
Also Read:
Arman Tsarukyan’s net worth breakdown: UFC earnings, endorsements, and the family values behind his success