Arman Tsarukyan has stated that the UFC initially proposed a fight between him and Michael Chandler for an event scheduled for June 14, reportedly to take place at the South Lawn of the White House.
However, Tsarukyan alleges that the UFC later altered their plans. Following this change, Michael Chandler was instead scheduled to compete against the powerful Brazilian striker, Mauricio Ruffy.
Michael Chandler has faced a challenging period in his recent UFC career, losing five of his last six bouts. His most recent appearance resulted in a significant TKO defeat against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314.
Chandler had previously expressed a strong desire to face Conor McGregor on the same June 14 date, aiming to settle their rivalry stemming from The Ultimate Fighter 31. It now appears that the UFC has different strategic directions for both McGregor and Chandler.
In contrast, Arman Tsarukyan, who is coming off a victory over Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar, has expressed his ambition to challenge for the lightweight title in his next outing.
Arman Tsarukyan Explains Why the Michael Chandler Fight Didn’t Happen
During a recent appearance on the PBD Podcast, the 29-year-old Armenian fighter discussed the proposed matchup with Michael Chandler that ultimately did not materialize. Tsarukyan commented:
“They were considering putting me against Chandler [at the White House event], but then they reconsidered [the potential matchup and opted for Mauricio Ruffy instead].”
Michael Chandler, who is 40 years old, may consider retirement if he does not achieve a victory in his upcoming fight. Should he manage to defeat Ruffy and again call out Conor McGregor, it would create an intriguing possibility for a fight to finally be booked.
Conor McGregor is rumored to be making his return in July at UFC 329, potentially facing Max Holloway in a rematch. However, a decisive win for Chandler on June 14 could still present him with a lucrative opportunity.
Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan is anticipated to be in line for a title shot later this year. He has also indicated his willingness to serve as a backup fighter for the lightweight championship unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.
English Translation:
Arman Tsarukyan has revealed that the UFC had initially planned a fight between him and Michael Chandler for June 14, with the event potentially taking place at the White House. However, the promotion reportedly changed its plans, leading to Chandler being booked against Brazilian knockout artist Mauricio Ruffy instead.
Chandler has been on a losing streak, having lost five of his last six UFC contests, with his most recent fight ending in a TKO loss to Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314. Chandler had initially aimed to fight Conor McGregor on June 14 to conclude their TUF 31 rivalry. However, it seems the UFC has different plans for both McGregor and Chandler.
Tsarukyan, who last competed and defeated Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar, is aiming for a lightweight title shot next.
Arman Tsarukyan on the Scrapped Michael Chandler Fight
Speaking on the PBD Podcast, Tsarukyan, aged 29, elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the unfulfilled Michael Chandler matchup:
“They wanted to pit me against Chandler [at the White House], but then they realized [it was not a favorable matchup and subsequently chose Mauricio Ruffy].”
At 40 years old, Chandler might contemplate retirement if he doesn’t return to winning ways at the White House event. If he secures a victory against Ruffy and again calls out McGregor, it could reignite discussions for their fight.
Conor McGregor is rumored to be returning in July at UFC 329, possibly in a rematch with Max Holloway. However, a significant win for Chandler on June 14 could still lead to a high-profile and financially rewarding fight.
Arman Tsarukyan is expected to contend for the title later this year. He has also expressed interest in being the backup fighter for the lightweight title unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.
