Paddy Pimblett questions Arman Tsarukyan’s UFC title shot case

Paddy Pimblett questioned Arman Tsarukyan's credentials for a UFC lightweight title shot, criticizing the fighter's inactivity and recent focus on grappling-heavy competitions outside the Octagon. Speaking at UFC 329 media day ahead of his co-main event clash with Benoit St. Denis, Pimblett dismissed Tsarukyan's campaign for a title opportunity.

"He needs to fight," Pimblett said. "He's had like one fight in three years, and he beat an absolute bum. He needs to actually fight. Not go around in a singlet tickling people." Pimblett was referring to Tsarukyan's recent participation in RAF wrestling events and his last UFC bout against Dan Hooker in November, which Pimblett evidently does not view as a credible victory. He further urged Tsarukyan to stop inactive periods and engage with top-tier competition. "[Fight] anyone. Just fight someone. Get in the Octagon and actually fight. Stop going around on your private jet eating food."

Tsarukyan has been campaigning for a title shot for some time, but current lightweight champion Justin Gaethje—who recently defeated Pimblett and Ilia Topuria—has shown little interest in granting the matchup, instead pursuing higher-profile opponents. Without consistent wins against ranked contenders, Tsarukyan's path to a title opportunity remains blocked, and Pimblett's public criticism underscores the consensus view that the fighter needs to prove himself through regular UFC competition.