Arman Tsarukyan was denied a UFC title shot, and it’s left fans and fighters alike scratching their heads. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Henry Cejudo sympathizes with Tsarukyan’s situation, he openly admits he understands the UFC’s reasoning—even if he doesn’t fully agree with it. So, what’s the real story behind this snub, and what does it mean for Tsarukyan’s future? Let’s dive in.
On December 16, 2025, the MMA world was buzzing after UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria announced he’d be taking a hiatus due to ongoing legal battles with his ex-wife. With Topuria sidelined, the UFC had to pivot, booking Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett to fight for the interim belt at UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas. And this is the part most people miss: Tsarukyan, despite his impressive record and recent dominance, was left without a fight—a move that has sparked debates about opportunity, timing, and the UFC’s decision-making process.
Henry Cejudo, a former two-division champion, weighed in on the situation during an interview with MMA Arena. While he believes Tsarukyan deserved the title shot, he also sees the UFC’s perspective. ‘Arman had his chance, but he didn’t take it when they needed him to,’ Cejudo explained. ‘Now, he’s got to get back in line. If I were him, I’d be fighting as often as possible to keep improving.’ Bold statement alert: Cejudo’s take highlights the harsh reality of the fight game—timing is everything, and missing your window can cost you dearly.
Tsarukyan, however, isn’t sitting idle. Fresh off a dominant win over Dan Hooker in Qatar last month, the 29-year-old is staying active—just not in the octagon. The No. 1-ranked lightweight is set to compete in two grappling matches: one against Mehdi Baydulaev at ACBJJ 20 in Moscow and another against UFC middleweight Shara Magomedov under the Hype FC banner on December 30. While these bouts won’t earn him a title shot, they’re a smart move to stay sharp and keep his name in the conversation.
Here’s the controversial question: Did the UFC make the right call by sidelining Tsarukyan, or did they miss an opportunity to reward a deserving contender? Cejudo’s insight sheds light on the business side of MMA, but it also raises bigger questions about fairness and fighter opportunities. What do you think? Is Tsarukyan’s snub justified, or should the UFC have handled it differently? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.
