The UFC's decision to bypass a top contender for a title fight has finally clicked for a legendary fighter, and it might change how you see the promotion's strategy!
It turns out that Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion, now has a clearer understanding of why Arman Tsarukyan, the number one ranked lightweight, was seemingly overlooked for the interim lightweight championship bout at UFC 324. Tsarukyan himself was understandably frustrated when the UFC announced that Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett would compete for the interim belt while Ilia Topuria was sidelined. Many, including Cormier, initially felt this was an unfair snub for Tsarukyan, who had seemingly earned his shot.
But here's where it gets interesting... After witnessing the exciting clash between Gaethje and Pimblett at UFC 324, Cormier had a moment of clarity. He shared his thoughts on his YouTube channel, explaining how he began to see the situation from the UFC's perspective, especially with a potential White House title fight in mind.
Cormier noted that the UFC likely saw the Gaethje vs. Pimblett matchup as a 'no-lose situation.' If Pimblett had won, the UFC would have gained a burgeoning star to challenge Topuria for the undisputed belt. However, with Justin Gaethje emerging victorious, the promotion now has an American fighter holding a portion of the title, perfectly setting the stage for a highly publicized fight at the White House, which is rumored to be happening in June. As Cormier put it, "Everybody’s like, ‘Well, why is that dude, why isn’t it Arman?’ Now it kind of makes sense because now that Gaethje has the belt, you’ve got an American guy holding a title going into the White House. It worked one way or the other. Now it makes more sense to me."
And this is the part most people miss: While Tsarukyan might not be getting the immediate next title shot, his skills are still highly regarded. UFC legend Demetrious Johnson, after training with Tsarukyan, believes he possesses the best chance of any lightweight to defeat Ilia Topuria. Johnson stated on his own YouTube channel that Tsarukyan should have been in the interim title fight and that he has the skillset to dethrone 'El Matador.'
So, while the UFC's matchmaking might seem puzzling at times, there's often a strategic layer behind it, especially when big events and star power are involved. What are your thoughts on the UFC's decision-making process? Do you agree with Cormier's new perspective, or do you still believe Arman Tsarukyan was unfairly treated? Let us know in the comments below!
