Dana White changes tune on Arman Tsarukyan after UFC 331 knockout: 'He's made up for' past mistakes
White said Tsarukyan "could not be in a better position" after his highlight-reel UFC 331 knockout of Mauricio Ruffy.
UFC CEO Dana White has softened his stance on Arman Tsarukyan following his impressive knockout victory at UFC 331. Tsarukyan, once considered one of the UFC's top lightweight contenders, had been on a six-fight winning streak since his June 2022 loss to Mateusz Gamrot. His first-round elbow knockout of Mauricio Ruffy sealed his position as the UFC's next 155-pound title challenger.
White acknowledged his previous criticism of Tsarukyan's off-the-belt behavior, but commended his recent turn-around. Tsarukyan, 29, had his title shot against Islam Makhachev in January 2025 derailed due to injury, leading to a period of uncertainty for the promotion. However, he has since been consistently placed as the logical next challenger for the lightweight title.
Tsarukyan is now eagerly awaiting his opportunity to face current champion Justin Gaethje, hoping for a fight in December. Gaethje seems to acknowledge the intensity of the situation, hinting that he may try to avoid Tsarukyan or even retire to prevent a potential fight with the rising star.
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