In the compelling world of the UFC’s lightweight division, a fresh champion has ascended the throne, coming in the form of Ilia Topuria. He seized the vacant title in a stunning knockout victory against Charles Oliveira. Not long after Topuria’s moment of victory had passed, spectators began to question UFC announcer Joe Rogan’s onstage blunder, which involved announcing Paddy Pimblett as the next competitor for Topuria, completely bypassing the actual first contender, Arman Tsarukyan.
Topuria, the Spanish warrior, had just clinched the lightweight crown, and speculation about his subsequent adversary was rife among fans. During a post-bout interview in the Octagon, Rogan inquired who Topuria, known as ‘El Matador’, would prefer to battle next. The champion responded with a facetious comment about Arman Tsarukyan, ridiculing the Armenian fighter for citing a ‘back injury’ as the reason for his withdrawal from their earlier planned match.
In a surprising turn of events, the UFC oracle falsely presented Paddy Pimblett as the next contender and even invited him to climb in the ring. Tsarukyan, taken aback, expressed his surprise, but resignedly accepted the situation once UFC President Dana White admitted that it was a misstep. His words were resigned, but clear, ‘I suppose he isn’t contending for the title then.’
The Armenian pro raised an eyebrow at Rogan’s error of calling Pimblett into the Octagon. There has been conjecture that Tsarukyan may not be able to reach the 155-pound requirement. However, as the standby participant for the UFC 317 event, he displayed his capacity by reaching the weight target successfully.
This display of commitment by Tsarukyan has enhanced the possibility greatly of a face-off between the new champion and himself. He is presently the top contender in the lightweight rankings, lending further credibility to his claim for a title opportunity. After witnessing Topuria’s awe-inspiring first-round win over Charles Oliveira via TKO, spectators couldn’t help but speculate on who the champion will face next.
Considering Tsarukyan’s premier ranking in the division, it seems like a natural progression for him to be the next in line for a title shot. While there has been no concrete affirmation of the fight as yet, Tsarukyan appears to have strategized his approach already. In a recent media interaction, he articulated his game plan, defining himself as a ‘well-rounded fighter’ who won’t solely rely on wrestling.
Contrary to conventional tactics, Tsarukyan plans to leverage every skill in his arsenal. He expressed his intention to throw punches, deliver kicks, and even upkicks. He made it clear that he won’t be entering the ring just to trade punches with the champion. Instead, he intends to treat Topuria to a comprehensive MMA fight, exhibiting all facets of the martial arts sport.
Simultaneously, a somewhat bewildering series of events unfolded when Paddy Pimblett entered the Octagon and stood toe-to-toe with Topuria. Their encounter was not devoid of drama, and a verbal battle quickly ignited, escalating tensions and further intensifying the atmosphere. This incident ignited the spectators, keeping them on the edge of their seats with anticipation.
However, the lack of official news about forthcoming matches has stirred rising confusion among the fanbase. Fans are left in the dark as to who will step into the Octagon next with the newly crowned champion, Topuria. While Tsarukyan seems to be the logical choice owing to his top ranking, the strange circumstances created on fight night, including the erroneous introduction of Pimblett, have added to the uncertainties.
Regardless of the muddled state of affairs, the intrigue remains high. The lightweight division is buzzing with conjectures, prospects, and the uncertainty that only a sport as unpredictable as UFC can offer. Whether it is Tsarukyan or Pimblett who steps in to challenge Topuria, the anticipation continues to keep fans on the edge of their seats.