Arman Tsarukyan is no longer willing to sit idle while the UFC lightweight title picture stalls.
Despite holding the top contender position at 155 pounds, Tsarukyan believes time is slipping by as champion Ilia Topuria remains inactive. Rather than waiting indefinitely for another opportunity at the undisputed belt, the 29 year old contender says he is open to an alternate route that still keeps his momentum moving forward.
Speaking with Ariel Helwani, Tsarukyan made it clear that patience has limits.
“Well, maybe BMF title. I want the real title, but I don’t want to wait until then.”
Tsarukyan’s frustration is rooted in uncertainty. From his perspective, the current champion’s schedule leaves too many unanswered questions about when the division will actually move.
“Ilia, he fights once a year. Maybe he defends his title in June and says, ‘Okay, I’ll fight next year, in June.’ Then what can I do?”
Why Waiting Is No Longer an Option
Tsarukyan emphasized that age and timing matter, even for someone still in his twenties. He does not see value in remaining inactive while the division pauses around one fighter.
“I’m not that young to wait a lot, too.”
With no guarantee of a title shot anytime soon, Tsarukyan believes pursuing the BMF belt could be a meaningful step rather than a distraction.
“So, if they give me the BMF title, that would be great too.”
The idea becomes even more compelling if the belt ends up around the waist of someone he already shares history with.
“If Charles Oliveira wins, it’s going to be good. We’ve got a story.”
Tsarukyan previously defeated Oliveira by split decision, a result that remains debated among fans and fighters alike. A second meeting, this time with a symbolic title on the line, would add new weight to that rivalry.
“[I’ll] just get that belt, and then the real belt.”
At the moment, the BMF title is still tied up elsewhere, and the winner may have other ambitions. Still, Tsarukyan sees this route as preferable to standing still.
While his ultimate goal remains the undisputed lightweight championship, Tsarukyan is focused on staying active and relevant while the division sorts itself out.
For now, his message is simple. Waiting is no longer part of the plan.
