After missing UFC 311 due to a back injury, Dana White revealed that Arman Tsarukyan will no longer be next in line for a lightweight title fight. And the Armenian had a surprising response to the disappointing news.
Over the last five years, 155-pounder Aman Tsarukyan has quietly turned into one of the best on Earth in his division. The 28-year-old has won four straight and nine of his last 10. Including victories over long-time lightweight stars like Beneil Dariush and former champion Charles Oliviera.
Related: UFC 311 Results, Highlights – Every Winner From Tonight’s Card
In an era where star power often lands title shots, Tsarukyan earned his championship opportunity at UFC 311 the old-fashioned way. However, at the worst possible time, he suffered a debilitating back injury in the final days of his fight camp. While he tried to battle through it, his weight cut only made it worse and he had to make the tough decision of pulling out of his scheduled bout with Islam Makhachev in Saturday’s main event.
In the end, Makhachev made easy work of replacement opponent Renato Moicano. Submitting him in the opening round. It seemed to open the door to rescheduling Tsraukyan vs. Makhachev for later this year. However, UFC boss Dana White doesn’t seem to have any interest in that fight now.
- Arman Tsarukyan record: 22-3 (9 knockouts, 5 submissions)
Dana White says Arman Tsarukyan is no longer UFC lightweight No. 1 contender
“He’s going back to the drawing board,” White said in the post-fight press conference. “I don’t want anyone to fight hurt. Ever. We’ve been in these positions before. Went down there with the doctor. With Heather from the Performance Institute. You can ask any fighter, she’s the best in the world. You miss opportunities sometimes and he did.”
It’s a harsh opinion on a fighter who earned his chance at gold the right way. One can only wonder if this was a bigger star like Dustin Poirier or Justin Gaethje, would White still have the same stance?
However, despite what should be frustrating news. Arman Tsarukyan took to X following White’s comments and had a surprising response.
I agree with Dana White. Once my back heals, I’ll be ready to prove I’m the true #1 contender by taking on anyone they put in front of me!” he wrote. Most fighters would be irate over the news. Credit to the young star for taking it in stride and being willing to prove himself once again.
Related: Where does Arman Tsarukyan land in our latest UFC lightweight rankings?
