Arman Tsarukyan Targets Justin Gaethje After KO Win at UFC 331

Arman Tsarukyan made a definitive statement on Saturday night at UFC 331 in Los Angeles, scoring a first-round knockout victory over Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event. The bout was widely viewed as a lightweight title eliminator, with division champion Justin Gaethje watching from cageside. Following the emphatic finish, Tsarukyan made it clear during his post-fight press conference that he expects to fight for the undisputed belt next.

Tsarukyan, who is currently riding a six-fight win streak in the lightweight division, was originally slated to challenge Islam Makhachev for the championship last year before a last-minute withdrawal disrupted those plans. Heading into Saturday's contest, Tsarukyan admitted to feeling intense pressure to secure an undeniable finish rather than a decision so UFC officials would grant him his title opportunity. He stated that he spoke with Dana White and UFC management after the bout and reaffirmed that he has proven himself after fighting in top-contender bouts for three consecutive years.

Despite earning the victory, Tsarukyan expressed skepticism about whether Gaethje will accept a fight against him. According to MMA Fighting, Tsarukyan accused the lightweight champion of actively avoiding him, suggesting Gaethje might instead pursue a matchup with Ilia Topuria or demand an exorbitant purse such as $15 million before retiring. Tsarukyan added that whether Gaethje chooses to fight him or vacate the title for the division's rising contenders, his primary goal remains securing his shot at the UFC lightweight championship.