Arman Tsarukyan has confirmed that the UFC brass has chosen him as the next lightweight title challenger.

Arman Tsarukyan Tells Ariel Helwani About What The UFC Has Planned For “Batman”

Arman Tsarukyan, during a recent sit-down with Ariel Helwani, revealed that the company told him he will challenge newly minted lightweight titleholder Justin Gaethje or fight for the vacant strap against another top contender if Gaethje retires.

Tsarukyan also said that he’s expected to fight for the 155-pound strap in the first quarter of 2027.

“I’ll fight for the belt in the first quarter of 2026 in America.” [quote is edited for clarity]

Check out Arman Tsarukyan’s comments below:

🚨 Arman Tsarukyan says the UFC told him he'll fight for the title in February or March next year

He was given two possible opponents: Justin Gaethje, or another name if Gaethje retires

Arman believes Gaethje will retire and he will fight the other name 👀

(via @arielhelwani) pic.twitter.com/keVZJ265an
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 23, 2026

Tsarukyan added that if Gaethje retires, he will most likely fight Ilia Topuria or Paddy Pimblett. “Batman” is also confident that a Gaethje vs. Topuria 2 title rematch will not happen, as he will fight for the belt next.

Tsarukyan most recently knocked out Mauricio Ruffy cold at UFC 331, proving why he’s the division’s top contender. He wanted to fight again in December, but Gaethje won’t be ready.

Justin Gaethje Is Game To Fight Arman Tsarukyan

Justin Gaethje captured the interim title earlier this year after defeating Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324. “The Highlight” then marched forward and dethroned Ilia Topuria at the White House to become the undisputed 155-pound kingpin.

Gaethje has not decided whether he wants to keep fighting or vacate and retire. For now, he’s on the sidelines recovering from a few injuries. For now, “The Highlight” wants to enjoy being champion while taking time to decide if fighting again is worth it or if it’s time to hang up the gloves.

The 37-year-old has clearly stated he does not want to fight a third time this year, and if he doesn’t retire, he will return in 2027 to defend his belt against Arman Tsarukyan. On the Flagrant Podcast, Gaethje said:

“[Arman] is the next in line. If and when I defend this championship, that will be who I fight. I just don’t know right now.”

Check out Justin Gaethje’s comments below:

🚨 Justin Gaethje says his next fight will be against Arman Tsarukyan if he chooses to defend his title:

"[Arman] is the next in line. If and when I defend this championship, that will be who I fight. I just don't know right now.

I'm just going to enjoy being the champion for… https://t.co/NNf32cDQ9O pic.twitter.com/1IrlgYmwmM
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) September 23, 2026

Also read: Dillon Danis Reveals Encouraging Signs About Conor McGregor’s UFC Return – “He’s Focused”