TLDR
- Chael Sonnen is calling on the UFC to forgive Arman Tsarukyan and grant him a lightweight title shot
- Sonnen says Tsarukyan is trapped in a ‘weird purgatory’ despite strong performance and professional conduct
- The UFC veteran praised Tsarukyan’s behavior and urged Dana White to reconsider the title fight snub
- Tsarukyan was expected to challenge for the lightweight title but has been passed over without explanation
- The UFC has not responded to Sonnen’s comments or provided a timeline for Tsarukyan’s title opportunity
Sources: MMA Junkie | EssentiallySports | TotalProSports
UFC veteran Chael Sonnen is calling on the promotion to forgive lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan and grant him a title shot. Sonnen believes Tsarukyan is stuck in what he calls a “weird purgatory” after being passed over for a championship opportunity.
Tsarukyan was expected to challenge for the lightweight title but has been left waiting on the sidelines. The Armenian fighter’s path to the belt has been blocked despite his strong performance record in the division.
Sonnen Defends Tsarukyan’s Professionalism
Sonnen praised Tsarukyan’s behavior and professional conduct throughout his UFC career. The former title challenger emphasized that Tsarukyan has done everything right both inside and outside the octagon.
The UFC insider urged Dana White and the promotion to reconsider their decision to snub Tsarukyan. Sonnen argued that the lightweight contender has earned his opportunity through legitimate wins and proper conduct.
Tsarukyan has compiled an impressive record in the UFC’s lightweight division. He has defeated several top-ranked opponents and positioned himself as a legitimate title contender.
The controversy stems from previous incidents that may have affected the UFC’s view of Tsarukyan. However, Sonnen believes whatever issues existed should be put behind both parties.
Chael Sonnen came forward in support of Arman Tsarukyan 🫡👏
"Can we please forgive him? Whatever he did to get himself in this weird purgatory, can we also remember that he agreed to be a backup fighter? He went through the commission and made weight. He was ready to go on in a… pic.twitter.com/PgFHMHsL7Q
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) January 13, 2026
Sonnen called out the criticism directed at Tsarukyan and defended the fighter’s character. He stated that holding Tsarukyan back from title contention serves no purpose for anyone involved.
The lightweight division currently faces questions about who will challenge for the championship next. Several fighters have made claims to the title shot, but Tsarukyan appeared to be next in line before being passed over.
Title Shot Debate Continues
Sonnen’s public support adds pressure on UFC leadership to address the situation. Other voices in the MMA community have also questioned why Tsarukyan remains without a title fight booking.
The timing of Sonnen’s comments comes as the UFC plans its upcoming lightweight title fights. The promotion has not officially announced who will get the next championship opportunity in the division.
Tsarukyan has remained professional during the waiting period according to those close to the situation. He continues training and preparing for whatever opportunity comes next.
Sonnen’s influence as a respected voice in MMA could impact how fans view the controversy. His willingness to publicly advocate for Tsarukyan demonstrates the level of support the contender has within the fighting community.
The UFC has not responded publicly to Sonnen’s comments about Tsarukyan. White and other UFC officials have not provided a timeline for when Tsarukyan might receive his title shot.
Tsarukyan’s team has expressed frustration with the delay in getting a championship fight. They believe their fighter has met all requirements to earn a title opportunity in the lightweight division.
