Islam Makhachev criticizes UFC's decision regarding his former rival; understand the situation.

Islam Makhachev in victory against Jack Della Maddalena . Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

Although his days as lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) are behind him, Islam Makhachev is still questioned about the direction the division has taken since his departure. This Wednesday (10), the Russian became yet another fighter to speak publicly in a negative way about the confrontation between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje , valid for the interim belt of the category with the hiatus of Ilia Topuria.

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In fact, the current welterweight champion's (up to 77,1 kg) discontent is not directly related to the main event of UFC 324, but rather to the absence of Arman Tsarukyan . According to him, Arman Tsarukyan should be part of the fight, as he is the number one contender.

“The organization may not like it, but they are promoting more and more fights that I don’t understand. Of course, I think Arman should have had a title shot. Arman won’t be fighting anytime soon. Whoever wins between Gaethje and Pimblett will get a title shot in Topuria, which means another year of inactivity for Arman,” the Russian stated in an interview with Red Corner MMA.

Islam Makhachev says the UFC's matchmaking confuses him – Gaethje vs Pimblett will get a title shot while Arman waits ‍♂️

"The organization may not like it, but they make more and more fights that I don't understand. Of course, I think Arman should've gotten the title shot... pic.twitter.com/3lfAgJxmzA

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) December 10, 2025

Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan were supposed to face each other in a rematch.

Face-off between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan (Photo: Reproduction/YouTube)

Dana White's dislike for Arman Tsarukyan is related to Islam Makhachev . The two were supposed to face each other for the second time at the first numbered event of the year, UFC 311. However, the Armenian withdrew from the fight just hours before the weigh-in, claiming a back injury. He was then replaced by Renato Moicano . Since then, the number one ranked fighter in the division has not had an easy time in the company.

More recently, the UFC CEO dismissed Tsarukyan's victory against Dan Hooker and stated that he will have to "fight" to earn a title shot.

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