Arman Tsarukyan Strengthens Title Shot Case with UFC 331 Bout Acceptance

Arman Tsarukyan is poised to advance his claim for a UFC lightweight title shot as he prepares to face knockout specialist Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331. This upcoming bout follows Tsarukyan's recent victory over Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar, further solidifying his contention for lightweight gold.

Initially, Tsarukyan was slated for a rematch against BMF titleholder Charles Oliveira at UFC 331, reliving their memorable clash at UFC 300. However, the tragic passing of Oliveira's long-time teammate, Allan Nascimento, has led to Oliveira being indefinitely sidelined to allow for mourning.

Despite the change in opponent, Tsarukyan demonstrated a strong commitment by readily accepting a fight against a fighter ranked lower in the lightweight division. UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier praised Tsarukyan's decisive action in accepting the new matchup, viewing it as a significant positive step.

Daniel Cormier Commends Arman Tsarukyan Following UFC 331 Fight Announcement

In a recent YouTube video, Cormier expressed his admiration for Tsarukyan's response to the UFC 331 fight adjustment. "Yesterday, we learned he's fighting Mauricio Ruffy. It's a risky fight with less potential reward, as Ruffy, despite his talent and recent impressive win, doesn't possess the same name recognition as Charles Oliveira. Arman Tsarukyan's acceptance of this fight, I believe, enhances his case more than anything else," Cormier stated.

"One of the factors hindering Arman's title shot was the perception that he deserved it due to the circumstances of his previously scheduled fight with Islam Makhachev. Now, he's consistently agreeing to fights and various fight scenarios. This makes him a fighter everyone wants to work with."

"It's regrettable because we were eager to witness his rematch with Oliveira. Their first fight was exceptional. Arman even inadvertently connected with a fan on his way to the Octagon. However, due to the unfortunate passing of Charles' teammate, we won't be seeing that fight," Cormier added.

Tsarukyan is aiming for his second career title opportunity, following a fight cancellation against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311. Should Tsarukyan defeat Ruffy next month, the talented lightweight contender could very well be next in line for a shot at the current lightweight champion, Justin Gaethje.