Dana White declines to guarantee Arman Tsarukyan title shot

UFC CEO Dana White has declined to guarantee a lightweight title shot for Arman Tsarukyan, even if he defeats Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on September 19 in Los Angeles. While Tsarukyan’s team has claimed a victory would secure a bout against champion Justin Gaethje, White expressed hesitation to label the co-main event a definitive title eliminator.

White stated, “I hate to say that until the fight is over,” noting that Tsarukyan has made various claims and that the relationship between the fighter and UFC leadership has been complicated following Tsarukyan’s withdrawal from UFC 311 due to injury.

Tsarukyan, currently ranked number two in the lightweight division, holds a 23-3 record. Although champion Justin Gaethje has previously suggested Tsarukyan deserves the next title opportunity over other contenders, White’s comments suggest that an emphatic performance, such as a stoppage victory, may be required to force the promotion's hand.