- Dana White wants Arman Tsarukyan to fight and win first before possibly getting another title shot
- “Ahalkalakets” appears to be interested in facing Charles Oliveira
UFC president Dana White is certain Arman Tsarukyan would have to work to earn a title shot once again and it seems like “Ahalkalakets” already sees Charles Oliveira as a potential opponent.
Arman is back to square one
Speaking to the media in his post-UFC 311 presser, White declared that Tsarukyan is not getting an instant title shot even if he recovers from his back injury. This decision was clearly due to the late withdrawal that “Ahalkalakets” made that almost pout UFC 311’s main event in jeopardy.
“I don’t know. He’s not getting a title shot. So, that means he’s going to have to fight his way back to the title,” White said.
🚨 Dana White says Arman Tsarukyan will NOT be getting the next title shot, and has to work his way back up to a title fight 😬😬#UFC311 #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/QuUCrYYIdL
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 19, 2025
For Tsarukyan, the UFC boss’ call was nothing short of fair and correct.
“I agree with @danawhite. 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 on X.
I agree with @danawhite. 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! https://t.co/LAI2khcxCX
— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) January 19, 2025
A bout with Oliveira for the No. 1 contender
As early as now, Tsarukyan already has a possible opponent in mind. In another post on X, he appears to have called Oliveira out for a five-round bout.
@CharlesDoBronxs in 5 rounder makes most sense
— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) January 19, 2025
Indeed, Tsarukyan vs. Oliveira seems interesting. In fact, even former lightweight title challenger and No. 7 contender Michael Chandler is totally in favor of it.
Charles vs Islam has to be next. Professionals.
— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) January 19, 2025
Renato Moicano stepped in to replace Tsarukyan at UFC 311. However, he was submitted by Islam Makhachev in the first round to retain his lightweight title once again.
