Arman Tsarukyan torches Paddy Pimblett’s performance in UFC 324 loss

Arman Tsarukyan doesn’t believe Paddy Pimblett is a high-level lightweight following UFC 324.

Pimblett had a chance to capture the interim UFC Lightweight Championship this past Saturday in Las Vegas. Pimblett’s interim title fight against Justin Gaethje headlined UFC’s debut event on Paramount+. While Pimblett had some bright spots, it was Gaethje who emerged victorious via unanimous decision.

During an interview with Megan Olivi on the UFC 324 post-show, Tsarukyan said the result didn’t surprise him.

“I told everybody Justin’s gonna win by decision,” Tsarukyan said.

When asked about Pimblett’s strategy, Tsarukyan put the No. 5-ranked lightweight on blast.

“I didn’t understand his gameplan even,” Tsarukyan said. “He wanted to box with Gaethje but he couldn’t wrestle him. He couldn’t box him. He’s just a little bit young and he has a better chin, but he’s a trash can.”

Tsarukyan wasn’t exactly impressed by Gaethje’s showing either. He doesn’t believe “The Highlight” would have the same success if they share the Octagon.

“Paddy let him do that, but Paddy’s not top fighter,” Tsarukyan said. “If it was me or Ilia, Justin couldn’t fight like that.”

For the moment, Gaethje has secured a title unification bout. It’s unknown when reigning UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria will end his hiatus. Topuria did make a post on X following UFC 324. In the post, the 155-pound ruler said that Gaethje is “screwed” when he makes his return.

If Topuria isn’t ready to go in a timely manner, then UFC might finally turn to Tsarukyan. While Tsarukyan hasn’t exactly gotten in the good graces of the UFC brass, the fact that he was given airtime on the post-show might indicate things are moving in a better direction.

Do you think Paddy Pimblett will eventually hold UFC gold? Will Arman Tsarukyan get another chance if needed? Tell us in the comment section.