Arman Tsarukyan has made a bold statement about the UFC lightweight title picture. The top-ranked contender believes champion Justin Gaethje should consider stepping away from the division if he cannot defend the belt soon. Tsarukyan argued that the lightweight division should keep moving instead of waiting for the champion’s return.The Armenian star has not fought in the UFC since defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. While he remains one of the leading contenders, Gaethje’s recent title win has delayed his championship opportunity. Instead of waiting, Tsarukyan has now suggested a surprising alternative that could reshape the lightweight division and create a title fight against Paddy Pimblett.
Arman Tsarukyan says Justin Gaethje should retire if he cannot defend the lightweight title
Arman Tsarukyan believes the UFC lightweight division should not stay on hold while Justin Gaethje recovers from his recent title fight. Gaethje captured the lightweight championship with a stunning upset over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250. However, the champion is not expected to return to the Octagon for several months.Tsarukyan has repeatedly said he deserves the next title opportunity. However, he also understands that waiting for Gaethje could leave him inactive for too long. Because of that, he has floated a different idea that has quickly grabbed fans’ attention.According to Tsarukyan, if Gaethje cannot defend the championship in the near future, the veteran should consider retiring and vacating the belt. He admitted such a move would create problems for the UFC but insisted it would allow the division to continue moving forward.The lightweight contender even named the opponent he would like to face if the title became vacant. Tsarukyan said he would happily fight rising British star Paddy Pimblett for the undisputed lightweight championship. While he acknowledged that the scenario may be difficult for the UFC to accept, he believes it would be the best solution if the champion remains unavailable.His comments come after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the title picture. Gaethje himself previously admitted that Tsarukyan is the leading contender for the next title shot. Despite that, the champion is expected to take several months off following his championship victory.In the meantime, Tsarukyan and his management have discussed staying active instead of waiting. His manager recently explained that a rematch with former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira appears to be the most appealing option. Gaethje is unlikely to return before the end of the year. Hence, facing Oliveira again could help Tsarukyan maintain momentum while strengthening his title claim.Tsarukyan defeated Oliveira by split decision at UFC 300, earning what was originally expected to be a championship opportunity. Since then, the lightweight division has changed significantly, with Gaethje becoming champion and Oliveira winning the BMF title.A second meeting between Tsarukyan and Oliveira could determine the next challenger for the lightweight belt. However, Tsarukyan has now made it clear that if Gaethje cannot defend the championship, he would rather see the belt become vacant.