Ever wonder why a top contender gets overlooked for a title shot? It's a question that often leaves fans scratching their heads, and in the world of mixed martial arts, the answer can be as complex as a championship fight strategy. Eddie Alvarez, a seasoned veteran of the octagon, offers some insight into why Arman Tsarukyan found himself on the outside looking in for the lightweight title fight at UFC 324, despite being ranked as the number one contender.
On December 2, 2025, the MMA world learned that instead of Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett would be battling for the interim belt on January 24th. This decision left many fans, and perhaps Tsarukyan himself, wondering what went wrong.
Alvarez, having been in Tsarukyan's shoes, sheds light on the UFC's perspective. He suggests that the promotion might be using Tsarukyan to fill cards, a strategy that, while not necessarily malicious, can hinder a fighter's path to the top. But here's where it gets controversial: Alvarez believes that it ultimately falls on the fighter to capture the audience's imagination. He recalls a conversation with matchmaker Joe Silva after a fight, where Silva bluntly told him that his fighting style wasn't exciting enough for a title shot. Alvarez was infuriated at the time, but he later realized Silva's point.
"The fans want to see something special, something unbelievable. They want to see excitement, blood, guts, and you have to give the customer what they want," Alvarez explains. And this is the part most people miss: it's not always about winning; it's about providing a spectacle. Even if a fighter dominates, a victory might not be enough to earn a title shot.
Alvarez points to Khabib Nurmagomedov as an example of a dominant fighter who was also exciting. Khabib's relentless takedowns and ground-and-pound style kept fans on the edge of their seats, making him a must-see fighter.
While Tsarukyan has secured wins against formidable opponents like Dan Hooker, Charles Oliveira, and Beneil Dariush, Alvarez argues that the names on his resume don't carry the same weight as those of other top contenders. He contrasts Tsarukyan's wins with Gaethje's, highlighting the impact of a more thrilling, finish-focused approach.
Do you agree with Alvarez's assessment? Is it the fighter's responsibility to entertain, or should the UFC prioritize rankings and win streaks? Let's discuss in the comments!
