On January 26, 2026, Liverpool-born fighter Paddy Pimblett was defeated by Justin Gaethje in Las Vegas, losing by unanimous decision with scores of 48-47, 49-46, and 49-46. Gaethje claimed the interim UFC Lightweight Championship and is set to face Ilia Topuria later this year to unify the lightweight title. This marked Pimblett’s first loss in the UFC and the fourth defeat of his MMA career across 27 fights. Despite the setback, UFC president Dana White praised Pimblett’s toughness and resilience against the tough opponent. He noted that Paddy
“is tough, he is durable, especially against Gaethje and you’re eating those punches from him.”
?Dana White, UFC President
Arman Tsarukyan Voices Frustration Over Title Opportunity
Arman Tsarukyan, an Armenian MMA fighter, expressed his displeasure over Pimblett’s title shot, arguing that he was unfairly given the chance ahead of himself. After the fight, Tsarukyan took to social media to criticize Pimblett’s ranking rise and congratulated Gaethje for his performance. He wrote,
“That’s what happens when you’re gifted opportunities and pushed up the rankings artificially, a completely undeserved title shot for Paddy. Congratulations to Justin. He showed real heart, and unlike others he’ll step up and take the fight with me. Respect.”
?Arman Tsarukyan, MMA Fighter
Tsarukyan Labels Pimblett a “Trash Can” in Candid Interview
Continuing his harsh critique in an interview with Paramount UFC, Tsarukyan called Pimblett a “trash can” and questioned his strategy against Gaethje. He expressed confusion about Pimblett’s game plan, saying Pimblett attempted to box Gaethje but failed both in striking and wrestling exchanges. Tsarukyan added,
“I told everybody that Justin was going to win by decision. I didn’t understand his game plan even. He wanted to box with Gaethje but he couldn’t wrestle him. He couldn’t box him. He’s just a little bit young and he has a better chin. But he’s a trash can.”
?Arman Tsarukyan, MMA Fighter
Significance and What to Expect Next
Pimblett’s defeat and Tsarukyan’s vocal criticism highlight growing tension within the UFC lightweight division, particularly about rankings and title shot opportunities. With Gaethje moving forward as interim champion against Ilia Topuria, Tsarukyan’s challenge to face Gaethje indicates continuing rivalries and competitive stakes. The dispute over who deserves title contention may shape upcoming fights in this division, impacting fighters’ careers and fans’ expectations.
