Arman Tsarukyan's Title Shot Case Bolstered by Accepting UFC 331 Fight

UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier suggests that Arman Tsarukyan has solidified his position for a lightweight title opportunity by readily agreeing to a new fight at UFC 331.

Tsarukyan is slated to face the powerful striker Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331 next month. This bout comes after Tsarukyan's recent victory over Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar, a performance that further enhanced his standing in the lightweight division and his pursuit of a championship bout.

Initially, Tsarukyan was expected to rematch BMF titleholder Charles Oliveira at UFC 331. However, this highly anticipated rematch was postponed due to the tragic passing of Oliveira's longtime teammate, Allan Nascimento, leaving the BMF champion sidelined to mourn.

Despite the shift in opponents and facing someone ranked lower, Tsarukyan's commitment to fighting has impressed UFC matchmakers. Daniel Cormier highlighted this willingness to compete as a significant factor in Tsarukyan's favor.

Daniel Cormier Praises Tsarukyan's Fight Acceptance

In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Cormier expressed his admiration for Tsarukyan's decision to accept the new fight with Ruffy.

"Yesterday, we received the news that he's fighting Mauricio Ruffy. It's a dangerous fight with less potential reward because Ruffy, while skilled and coming off a notable win, doesn't carry the same name recognition as Charles Oliveira. Arman Tsarukyan's agreement to this fight, in my opinion, strengthens his case more than anything else," Cormier stated regarding Tsarukyan.

"What made it difficult for Arman to secure a title shot was the perception that he was deserving after the initial scheduled fight with Islam [Makhachev] fell through. Now, he's saying yes to every opportunity, in any fighting scenario. That makes you a fighter everyone wants to work with."

"It's unfortunate because we would have loved to see him and Oliveira in a rematch," Cormier continued, referencing Tsarukyan. "Their first fight was incredible. Arman even managed to hit a fan on his way to the Octagon. But unfortunately, Charles' teammate passed away, and that's why I believe we aren't getting that fight."

Tsarukyan is aiming for his second career title shot, following a prior bout with Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 that was canceled. A victory over Ruffy next month could position the talented lightweight as the next contender for the current lightweight champion, Justin Gaethje.