Morning Report | Paddy Pimblett reacts to Arman Tsarukyan’s win at UFC 331: ‘I’d still punch his head in’

Paddy Pimblett reluctantly acknowledged Arman Tsarukyan's standout performance at UFC 331, though the longtime rivals remained at odds even as Tsarukyan cemented his case for a lightweight title shot.

Tsarukyan delivered one of his career's most impressive displays at UFC 331, stopping Mauricio Ruffy with a brutal elbow in the co-main event. Even Pimblett, who has feuded with Tsarukyan for years over positioning in the lightweight division, had to give credit where due, calling the finishing elbow "naughty" on his YouTube channel. However, Pimblett's praise was tempered by criticism of the overall performance, suggesting Tsarukyan looked vulnerable throughout much of the fight and only landed the statement blow in the final moments. Pimblett noted that Ruffy failed to capitalize when Tsarukyan appeared to abandon his wrestling approach near the fight's end.

Pimblett used the assessment to downplay Tsarukyan's credentials, pointing to technical deficiencies and questioning whether his wrestling is truly elite. He also questioned the strength of Tsarukyan's recent wins, noting that Ruffy ranked seventh and that prior victim Dan Hooker—previously ranked sixth—has since dropped further down the rankings. Despite Tsarukyan appearing next in line for a title opportunity, Pimblett suggested the UFC might instead orchestrate an Ilia Topuria–Justin Gaethje rematch given recent controversy, leaving Tsarukyan's path to gold uncertain.

The two have never fought inside the octagon despite their prolonged rivalry, with Tsarukyan's apparent title contention likely keeping them separated. Pimblett maintains his conviction that he would prevail in a matchup, a sentiment unchanged by Saturday's dominant display.