Arman Tsarukyan puzzled by Dana White’s continued criticism

Arman Tsarukyan says he still doesn’t understand why UFC CEO Dana White continues to criticize him.

Tsarukyan (23–3 MMA, 10–2 UFC) was recently left out of the interim lightweight title picture after the promotion opted to match Justin Gaethje against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324. Following Gaethje’s victory, he is now set to face lightweight champion Ilia Topuria in a title unification bout at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14.

White’s frustration with Tsarukyan dates back to the fighter withdrawing from his scheduled title fight against Islam Makhachev just one day before UFC 311. The Armenian contender also drew attention during the UFC Fight Night 265 weigh-ins when he headbutted Dan Hooker ahead of their bout — a fight Tsarukyan ultimately won by first-round submission.

Speaking in a translated interview with Red Corner MMA, Tsarukyan said he has no issues with the promotion despite White’s comments.

“I don’t know why Dana speaks negatively about me, but I don’t have any problems with them or any issues behind the scenes,” Tsarukyan said. “There’s no point in addressing him because I don’t negotiate with him.”

Tsarukyan explained that his discussions regarding future fights are handled directly with UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell and matchmaker Sean Shelby.

“I’m in talks with Hunter because he’s responsible for matchmaking,” Tsarukyan said. “Dana probably just approves the fights. The actual matchmakers are Sean Shelby and Hunter, so I don’t really have anything to say to Dana. I spoke with Hunter this morning and he already gave me a date for my next fight.”

Appearing on the JAXXON Podcast ahead of UFC 326, Tsarukyan also revealed that the UFC is considering giving him the winner of the upcoming title bout between Topuria and Gaethje. However, he added that he would be willing to take another fight if the wait becomes too long.