TLDR
- Arman Tsarukyan fights Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on September 19
- Tsarukyan says a loss would end his chances of ever fighting for a UFC title
- He was previously pulled from a title fight against Islam Makhachev in early 2025
- Current lightweight champion Justin Gaethje is injured and won’t return until 2027
- Dana White has not confirmed Tsarukyan would get a title shot with a win
Sources: yardbarker.com
Arman Tsarukyan will face Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on September 19 in what he considers a career-defining moment. The lightweight contender said a loss would permanently end his chances of fighting for a UFC title.
“I’m taking Mauricio Ruffy as an opponent for my title fight. Every fight for me is important,” Tsarukyan said. “If I lose this fight, I’m never going to see a title fight.”
Tsarukyan added that he has been highly motivated during training camp. He said he has worked harder than ever for this opportunity.
Rocky Path to Title Contention
Tsarukyan’s journey to a potential title shot has faced multiple setbacks. He was originally scheduled to fight Islam Makhachev for the lightweight championship in early 2025.
That fight fell through when Tsarukyan was pulled from the bout. The situation damaged his relationship with UFC leadership and set back his title aspirations.
Accepting the fight against Ruffy has helped Tsarukyan repair his standing with the organization. His team views this bout as a chance to get back in the UFC’s good graces.
🥺 Arman Tsarukyan talks about his earlier financial struggles and language barrier when he came to train in United States:
"I was living in the gym for 2 months. I didn't have a car, I didn't speak english."
🎥 @ArmanUfc pic.twitter.com/Q9mIf7Zla3
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 13, 2026
Tsarukyan’s camp believes a victory over Ruffy should position him as the next challenger for the lightweight title. Current champion Justin Gaethje holds the belt but is dealing with injuries.
Gaethje Injury Creates Uncertainty
Gaethje is not expected to return to the octagon until 2027 due to hand injuries. This timeline leaves the lightweight division in an uncertain state for the near future.
Dana White has not confirmed that Tsarukyan would receive a title shot with a win. The UFC president has stopped short of making any official promises about the next title challenger.
Tsarukyan’s team remains confident that a strong performance against Ruffy will secure him the next opportunity. They see this fight as the final obstacle between their fighter and a championship bout.
The lightweight contender emphasized how important every fight has been throughout his career. He said he gives everything during each training camp regardless of the opponent.
Tsarukyan described himself as “super motivated” and “super hungry” for the September 19 matchup. He views the Ruffy fight as his last realistic chance to compete for UFC gold.
The lightweight division has been in flux since Gaethje won the title. Several contenders have been waiting for clarity on when the champion might defend his belt.
Ruffy represents a dangerous opponent who could derail Tsarukyan’s title dreams. A loss would likely push Tsarukyan down the rankings and away from championship consideration.
Tsarukyan has made clear he understands the stakes of this fight. His comments reflect the pressure he feels to secure a victory at UFC 331.
The fight takes place on September 19, with Gaethje expected to remain sidelined until 2027 with hand injuries.
