Arman Tsarukyan asserts that the UFC had initially intended to book him for a fight against Michael Chandler on June 14, with the event slated to take place at the South Lawn of the White House. However, according to Tsarukyan, the promotion subsequently altered its plans, leading to Chandler being matched up with Brazilian knockout specialist Mauricio Ruffy.
This development comes as Michael Chandler faces a challenging period in his UFC career, having lost five of his last six bouts. His most recent outing resulted in a significant TKO defeat against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314. Chandler had initially expressed a desire to face Conor McGregor on June 14 to conclude their rivalry stemming from The Ultimate Fighter 31. However, it now appears that the UFC has alternative plans for both McGregor and Chandler.
Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan, who last competed at UFC Qatar where he defeated Dan Hooker, has expressed his intention to pursue a lightweight title shot next.
Tsarukyan Details Potential Chandler Matchup
Speaking on the PBD Podcast, the 29-year-old Armenian fighter discussed the Michael Chandler fight that ultimately did not materialize. He stated, “They wanted to put me against Chandler [at the White House], but then they realized [it was a bad idea and so they chose Mauricio Ruffy].”
Michael Chandler, now 40 years old, could potentially be on the verge of retirement if he doesn’t secure a win in his upcoming fights. A victory against Ruffy and another call-out of Conor McGregor could reignite the possibility of their highly anticipated rematch. McGregor is rumored to be returning in July at UFC 329, possibly against Max Holloway. However, a strong performance on June 14 could still provide Chandler with a lucrative “red panty night.”
Arman Tsarukyan, on the other hand, is widely expected to contend for the lightweight title later this year. He has also indicated his willingness to serve as a backup fighter for a potential lightweight title unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.
