Justin Gaethje Faces Retirement Calls, Paddy Pimblett Emerges as Contender

Justin Gaethje's title reign is under threat as Arman Tsarukyan demands retirement, naming Paddy Pimblett as his preferred contender.

What happened?

Arman Tsarukyan has made a bold statement about the UFC lightweight title picture. The top-ranked contender believes champion Justin Gaethje should consider stepping away from the division if he cannot defend the belt soon. Tsarukyan argued that the lightweight division should keep moving instead of waiting for the champion's return.

Why it matters for Justin Gaethje

Gaethje captured the lightweight championship with a stunning upset over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250. However, the champion is not expected to return to the Octagon for several months. Tsarukyan has repeatedly said he deserves the next title opportunity. However, he also understands that waiting for Gaethje could leave him inactive for too long.

What comes next?

Tsarukyan has floated a different idea that has quickly grabbed fans' attention. According to Tsarukyan, if Gaethje cannot defend the championship in the near future, the veteran should consider retiring and vacating the belt. He admitted such a move would create problems for the UFC but insisted it would allow the division to continue moving forward.

Tsarukyan even named the opponent he would like to face if the title became vacant. He would happily fight rising British star Paddy Pimblett for the undisputed lightweight championship. While he acknowledged that the scenario may be difficult for the UFC to accept, he believes it would be the best solution if the champion remains unavailable.

His comments come after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the title picture. Gaethje himself previously admitted that Tsarukyan is the leading contender for the next title shot. Despite that, the champion is expected to take several months off following his championship victory.

A possible rematch

In the meantime, Tsarukyan and his management have discussed staying active instead of waiting. His manager recently explained that a rematch with former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira appears to be the most appealing option. Gaethje is unlikely to return before the end of the year. Hence, facing Oliveira again could help Tsarukyan maintain momentum while strengthening his title claim.

Tsarukyan defeated Oliveira by split decision at UFC 300, earning what was originally expected to be a championship opportunity. Since then, the lightweight division has changed significantly, with Gaethje becoming champion and Oliveira winning the BMF title.

A second meeting between Tsarukyan and Oliveira could determine the next challenger for the lightweight belt. However, Tsarukyan has now made it clear that if Gaethje cannot defend the championship, he would rather see the belt become vacant.

Tsarukyan's comments have added fuel to the fire surrounding the lightweight title picture. The division is set for a shake-up, and fans are eagerly waiting to see what happens next.

Tsarukyan's next move will be crucial in determining the future of the lightweight division. Will he take on Oliveira in a rematch, or will he push for a title shot against Gaethje? Only time will tell.