Pimblett questions Tsarukyan's contender status at UFC 329

Lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett has publicly questioned the credentials of top-ranked fighter Arman Tsarukyan, arguing that Tsarukyan's recent focus on wrestling competitions undermines his claim to a title shot. Pimblett made the remarks during media events ahead of his pivotal co-main event bout against Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 329 this Saturday, July 11, in Las Vegas.

Pimblett, who is looking to rebound from a title fight loss to champion Justin Gaethje earlier this year, took direct aim at Tsarukyan's inactivity in mixed martial arts. Despite Tsarukyan having won five consecutive UFC fights, his most recent Octagon appearance was a victory over Dan Hooker last November. Since then, Tsarukyan has competed in Real American Freestyle Wrestling events.

"He's had like one fight in three years and he beat an absolute bum," Pimblett said, referencing Hooker. "He needs to actually fight, not go round in a singlet tickling people. Get in the Octagon and actually fight." Pimblett added that Tsarukyan appears more focused on activities outside fighting, stating, "You're not a fighter no more."

The criticism adds another layer to the unsettled landscape of the UFC's lightweight...