Arman Tsarukyan has been the most frustrated man in the lightweight division for months, and the situation is not resolving itself quickly.
With Justin Gaethje unlikely to defend the title before 2027, Tsarukyan’s manager Sayat Abdrakhmanov revealed to Match TV that a rematch against BMF champion Charles Oliveira is the most realistic and attractive option for keeping his fighter active and relevant.
‘Ahalkalakets’ edged ‘Do Bronx’ by split decision in 2024. If they run it back, the 36-year-old will have the opportunity to settle the score and likely secure a UFC lightweight title shot with a win over the top contender.
Why Justin Gaethje Is Not the Answer Right Now
Arman Tsarukyan, by any merit-based measure, should be next in line for a title shot. The problem is timing. Gaethje has already fought twice in 2026, most recently destroying Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 to claim undisputed lightweight gold, and has been direct about his plans, making clear he is extremely unlikely to fight again this year.
That puts the title shot conversation firmly into 2027 territory and leaves the Armenian with a decision to make.
Arman Tsarukyan’s Manager’s Case for Charles Oliveira Rematch
Arman Tsarukyan’s manager, Sayat Abdrakhmanov, made the strategic philosophy clear as well. He did not sugarcoat the logic and belives ‘Ahalkalakets’ needs to act rather than wait.
“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 Oliveira is the most attractive. We just have to consider the situation in the division, and the situation is that it’s better to act than to wait.”
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