What happened in this episode?
Arman Tsarukyan spoke to reporters after scoring a first-round knockout at UFC 331, describing himself as a slow starter who benefits from longer fights and saying he expected five rounds. He said he can “mix it up” beyond wrestling and explained the finish as an adjustment when he could not complete takedowns, turning to clinch elbows rather than a pre-planned knockout sequence.
On his next steps, Tsarukyan said he approached UFC president Dana White cageside to demand a title fight, telling him “only title” and arguing he has again proved himself in a number-one-contender position. He outlined a rough preferred timeline, saying he has no injuries, would take a week off, and could start a camp by mid-December, indicating he would accept whatever date the UFC offers.
Tsarukyan also escalated rhetoric towards Justin Gaethje, alleging Gaethje avoids mentioning him and predicting Gaethje may try to manoeuvre around the matchup through alternative call-outs, a higher payday demand, or retirement; Tsarukyan said he does not mind who the champion is, only that he gets a title shot.
Away from matchmaking, Tsarukyan credited social-media collaborations with personalities Nina Drama and Neon for growing his profile, said he intends to keep competing in wrestling after becoming champion because it is lucrative, and explained his previous Mark Zuckerberg call-out as promotional and an attempt to train with him.
