Arman Tsarukyan doesn’t plan to wait for UFC title shot, manager doesn’t expect Justin Gaethje to return anytime soon

It appears Arman Tsarukyan’s team isn’t counting on facing Justin Gaethje next.

Tsarukyan has made it clear that he feels a run with the UFC Lightweight Championship is inevitable. The general consensus within the MMA community is that “Akhalkalakets” is the rightful No. 1 contender, but will Gaethje even fight again in 2026? “The Highlight” scored a huge upset win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 to unify the gold at 155 pounds and initially held off on revealing plans for his fighting future.

Gaethje eventually appeared on the “JRE MMA Show” and told Joe Rogan that he doesn’t feel it’s time to hang up his gloves. When asked about a possible title showdown with Gaethje on Match TV, Tsarukyan’s manager Sayat Abdrakhmanov mentioned another name (via Bloody Elbow).

“Taking into account that Gaethje just fought and is unlikely to return to the octagon in the next six months and that Arman needs to stay active, the option with [Charles] Oliveira is the most attractive,” Abdrakhmanov said.

Tsarukyan has a victory over Oliveira, but it wasn’t in the dominant fashion he’s used to. Instead, Tsarukyan earned a split decision win over “do Bronxs” in a competitive three-round fight back in 2024. Tsarukyan has had one pro MMA bout since then, and the result was a second-round submission finish over Dan Hooker.

Tsarukyan has stayed active outside of the Octagon, racking up wins under the Real America Freestyle banner. He’s also had success with submission grappling and continues to make his presence felt on social media. Many believe the efforts of “Akhalkalakets” may have gotten him out of the UFC doghouse.

UFC CEO Dana White had previously let it be known that he wasn’t appreciative of some behind the scenes issues with Tsarukyan. If things have begun to smooth over, it might be good news for the No. 2-ranked UFC lightweight.

Do you think Arman Tsarukyan’s next fight will be against Justin Gaethje or Charles Oliveira? Is there another name you have in mind? Drop a comment below.