Tsarukyan closes the door on a rematch against Charles Oliveira and taunts: 'UFC needs to take care of him'

Tsarukyan promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

PUBLICITY:

Arman Tsarukyan is determined to put up a fight in the UFC. In November, in Qatar, the Armenian fulfilled his obligation, submitting Dan Hooker and defending his number one ranking in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). After securing his fifth consecutive victory, the athlete thought he would be in contention for the division title, but his wish was not granted. Therefore, the fighter also showed no hurry to find a new opponent and even vetoed a well-known name: Charles Oliveira.

With champion Ilia Topuria sidelined to resolve personal issues, Dana White announced that Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett will fight for the interim title in January, leaving Tsarukyan without an opponent. Currently, besides Tsarukyan, only the Brazilian and Max Holloway are available in the top 5. However, the Armenian has already made it clear that he has no interest in facing Charles, especially since he has already defeated him. According to the representative of the 'American Top Team', the UFC and the veteran should reach an agreement on affordable fights.

See too

EXCLUSIVE! Alexandre Pantoja thanks Makhachev for recognition in the UFC, celebrates and praises the Russian.

Lightweight 'Crazy' fighter reveals he 'almost' fought Charles Oliveira in the UFC.

Already? Jean Silva reveals his dream of retiring with a UFC title defense in Brazil.

“A second fight against Charles doesn’t make sense. If the UFC wants to see him lose again, that’s fine. But the UFC needs to take care of its legends. Don’t pit them against murderers,” the fighter said in an interview with ESPN.

First fight

UFC lightweight champions Arman Tsarukyan and Charles Oliveira faced off in 2024. On that occasion, the Armenian defeated the former champion by split decision. Because the fight's outcome generated controversy and the Brazilian nearly secured a submission victory, many fans would like to see a rematch.

Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.