Arman Tsarukyan reacts angrily to UFC announcement; Paddy Pimblett provokes Armenian fighter.

Arman Tsarukyan is ranked first in the lightweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Among the various MMA figures affected by the announcements of the first UFC events in 2026, perhaps none have been as negatively impacted as Arman Tsarukyan . Ranked number one in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg) and coming off victories against Charles Oliveira and Dan Hooker , the Armenian was left out and will have to watch the duel between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje for the interim title, just like all the other fans.

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The fighter did not react well to the news. On his official X account (formerly Twitter), the Armenian mocked the situation and said he saw no logic in the company's decision.

"Make it make sense," the fighter said, adding an emoji to show his frustration with the situation.

make it make sense ‍♂️

— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) November 28, 2025

Paddy Pimblett provoked Arman Tsarukyan

Paddy Pimblett defeated Michael Chandler at UFC 314. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

On the other hand, Paddy Pimblett undoubtedly benefited the most. Ranked fifth and coming off wins against Tony Ferguson , King Green , and Michael Chandler , the Briton is one victory away from securing the belt in MMA's most popular division and guaranteeing a unification bout with Ilia Topuria . In this context, he taunted Tsarukyan on social media.

"Do you like apples, Arman Tsarukyan ?", wrote the Evil One on his official X account (formerly Twitter).

Do you like apples? @ArmanUfc

— Paddy Pimblett (@PaddyTheBaddy) November 28, 2025

The expression cited by the Briton is common in English, and is usually used when a person gains an unexpected advantage at the expense of another person's failure, as was the case between the two fighters mentioned. Besides not having the opportunity to fight for the interim title, Tsarukyan will also be forced to wait for the unification of the belts between the winner of the fight and Ilia Topuria , who is expected to return in mid-2026.

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