Overview
- Daniel Cormier publicly declared on June 26 that Arman Tsarukyan must be the next fighter to challenge Justin Gaethje for the UFC lightweight title.
- Cormier said Tsarukyan’s multi-fight winning streak and frequent activity in wrestling, boxing, and grappling have made him “undeniable” and difficult for the UFC to ignore.
- Charles Oliveira has pressed to fight Gaethje next and proposed unifying his BMF recognition with the lightweight belt, but Cormier said Oliveira’s recent wins do not justify jumping Tsarukyan.
- Tsarukyan is scheduled to stay active by headlining RAF 11 against Colby Covington in July while Gaethje holds the title and has suggested he may delay immediate defenses.
- The UFC now faces a choice between the sportingly clear contender in Tsarukyan and the commercially strong Oliveira, a decision that will shape booking, timing, and fan interest in the division.