Tsarukyan Calls for Pimblett’s Removal from UFC Rankings

Arman Tsarukyan, an Armenian mixed martial artist, is advocating for Paddy Pimblett’s removal from the UFC rankings. This comes after Pimblett reportedly declined Tsarukyan’s challenge for a fight.

Pimblett, following his victory against Michael Chandler back in April, holds the ninth position in the UFC lightweight rankings.

Since entering the title discussion, the English fighter has been the target of numerous fight requests. Both Dan Hooker and current champion Ilia Topuria have expressed their desire to face him.

Tsarukyan, currently ranked second in the lightweight division and still awaiting an opportunity to compete for the lightweight title, has also voiced his interest in a match against Pimblett.

In response to a potential face-off with Tsarukyan, Pimblett stated that he wasn’t keen on the matchup. Consequently, Tsarukyan is urging the UFC to take action regarding the Liverpool native’s ranking.

“You’ve got to delete [Pimblett] from the rankings,” Tsarukyan asserted.

“He’s not even worthy of being in the top 10. The last three opponents he beat — [Michael] Chandler, Bobby Green, and Tony Ferguson — were all on losing streaks. How can you consider him for a title fight?”

Arman Tsarukyan further added that Paddy Pimblett isn’t deserving of a title opportunity, arguing that he himself is the legitimate number one contender.

“You shouldn’t even mention his name; he doesn’t even deserve to have his name mentioned,” Arman continued.

“No one has confirmed he’s getting a title shot. They are still deciding between me, [Justin] Gaethje, and Paddy. But they should pick me because I’m the top contender at the moment.”

With Islam Makhachev, the previous number one ranked fighter, transitioning to 170lbs, Tsarukyan is next in line for a title shot.

Ilia Topuria, the reigning lightweight champion, defeated Charles Oliveira in June to claim the title. Topuria also confronted Pimblett in the ring after the fight, despite Tsarukyan being the leading contender.