TLDR
- Paddy Pimblett criticized Arman Tsarukyan’s credentials while defending his UFC 324 interim title fight booking
- Pimblett argued Tsarukyan hasn’t beaten enough top-ranked opponents to deserve a championship opportunity
- The Liverpool fighter cited his drawing power and pay-per-view sales as justification for his title shot
- Pimblett pointed to his recent win streak and momentum as evidence he has earned the opportunity
- The booking has generated controversy with some questioning whether Pimblett’s resume justifies a title fight
Paddy Pimblett Criticizes Arman Tsarukyan’s Resume While Justifying UFC 324 Booking
Paddy Pimblett has launched a fierce defense of his selection for the UFC 324 interim lightweight title fight, taking aim at Arman Tsarukyan in the process. The Liverpool fighter addressed criticism about his booking in the main event by questioning Tsarukyan’s credentials as a contender.
Pimblett argued that Tsarukyan has not defeated enough top-ranked opponents to warrant a championship opportunity. He made his comments in a recent interview where he justified the UFC’s decision to place him in the interim title bout.
The 29-year-old fighter pointed to his own drawing power as a major factor in the UFC’s booking decision. Pimblett claimed his ability to sell pay-per-views makes him a more valuable choice for a main event title fight than other contenders.
Pimblett Questions Tsarukyan’s Path to Contention
The Liverpudlian fighter suggested that Tsarukyan is overhyped as a lightweight contender. Pimblett criticized the Armenian-Russian fighter’s resume and argued it does not stack up against his own accomplishments.
Pimblett referenced his recent win streak as evidence that he has earned his place in the title picture. He insisted his momentum inside the octagon combined with his popularity outside of it explain the UFC’s choice.
The interim title fight at UFC 324 has generated controversy within the MMA community. Some fans and analysts have questioned whether Pimblett’s ranking and recent opponents justify a title shot at this stage of his career.
Tsarukyan has been considered a top contender in the lightweight division for several months. Many observers believed he was next in line for a title opportunity based on his performances against ranked opponents.
Drawing Power vs. Rankings Debate
Pimblett’s comments highlight the ongoing tension in MMA between fighter popularity and divisional rankings. The UFC has historically balanced competitive merit with commercial appeal when making title fight decisions.
The British fighter has built a large fanbase since joining the UFC in 2021. His fights consistently generate strong viewership numbers and social media engagement.
Pimblett emphasized that his fan support validates the promotion’s decision to book him in the interim title fight. He argued that his ability to attract casual viewers benefits the entire sport.
The lightweight division has been in flux with questions about the undisputed champion’s availability. This situation created the need for an interim title bout to keep the division moving forward.
Tsarukyan has not publicly responded to Pimblett’s latest comments at this time. The Armenian-Russian fighter previously expressed frustration about being passed over for title opportunities.
Pimblett faces his toughest test yet at UFC 324 in the interim lightweight title fight. The event will determine whether his confidence in his abilities matches the reality of competing at championship level.
