Longest-reigning UFC featherweight champ Jose Aldo most recently lauded Arman Tsarukyan.
After Justin Gaethje dismantled and dethroned Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, forcing “El Matador” to retire on the stool before Round 4, Tsarukyan is now expected to challenge the newly crowned undisputed UFC lightweight champion.
“Ahalkalakets” earned a lightweight title shot at UFC 311 while Islam Makhachev still reigned as the 155-pound champion. However, the Armenian contender was forced to withdraw from the championship bout at the eleventh hour after suffering a hernia.
Despite being the top contender, the 29-year-old has yet to receive another title shot due to his antics inside and outside the UFC. Incidents such as punching a fan, headbutting Dan Hooker, his altercation with Georgio Poullas, among others, and especially his last-minute withdrawal from UFC 311 have all worked against his championship aspirations.
During a recent exclusive interview with Covers.com, Jose Aldo lauded Arman Tsarukyan. “Junior,” said:
“For me Arman was the next lightweight champion. I think he has every tool needed to become a champion. He’s incredibly tough, has very high-level wrestling, unbelievable cardio, and is also very big for the division.”
About a potential Tsarukyan vs. Gaethje bout, Aldo added:
“I think that fight could be 50-50. Gaethje has very good wrestling as well. But I think the pace might become a factor. Arman comes forward all the time. He shoots double legs, single legs, exchanges on the feet, and has a very good high kick. I think that could affect Gaethje. So I see Arman slightly ahead.”
However, after seeing how easily Gaethje handled Topuria, the Brazilian is no longer counting him out and believes “The Highlight” could be a serious threat to Tsarukyan if they ever lock horns.
“I wouldn’t rule Gaethje out because he’s a solid wrestler, has very good boxing and can create problems for anyone.”
Arman Tsarukyan will have to wait until 2027 to fight Justin Gaethje
Justin Gaethje does not plan on defending his 155-pound strap this year. Therefore, Arman Tsarukyan, who last competed at UFC Qatar in 2025, may have to wait until next year for Gaethje’s return.
In the meantime, he could run it back with BMF champion Charles Oliveira. If “Ahalkalakets” defeats Oliveira again, he would capture the BMF title and set up a massive showdown with Gaethje.
In that scenario, Tsarukyan could put the BMF belt on the line while “The Highlight” defends the UFC lightweight championship, creating a high-stakes champion-vs.-champion clash in 2027.
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