Henry Cejudo makes bold prediction for potential Justin Gaethje vs. Arman Tsarukyan clash

Arman Tsarukyan made a statement at UFC 331 that he is the most deserving contender to get the next title shot against Justin Gaethje by brutally knocking out ranked 7 Mauricio Ruffy in the late first round. Tsarukyan's next outing will likely be for the UFC gold. 

With the anticipation already building for the fight, former UFC two-division champion Henry Cejudo recently weighed in and shared his verdict. 

Henry Cejudo backs Justin Gaethje to defeat Arman Tsarukyan 

In his recent appearance on 'Fred Talks Fighting, ' Cejudo was asked for his prediction on the potential title fight between Gaethje and Tsarukyan, and ‘Triple C' backed the champion to get his hand raised. But also admitted there could be some personal bias because of his relationship with

“I'd probably favor Gaethje because I've known Gaethje since I was a friend, so there might be a little bias there, but Gaethje will fight this dude,” Cejudo said. 

Cejudo believes Gaethje will look to mix up his attacks rather than simply engage Tsarukyan in a striking battle. He specifically pointed to Gaethje’s wrestling credentials and expects him to bring that part of his game into the matchup.

“He will kick him, he will bring out the hands, and you know Gaethje's a D1 All-American as well. You know he doesn't use it so much in fighting, but I guarantee you, in this fight, he will be practicing his wrestling,” Cejudo added. 

Check out Henry Cejudo's comments below: 

Gaethje captured the UFC lightweight title by dethroning Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250. He shared that his hand still hurts from the damage he inflicted on Topuria that night, which led the Spaniard’s corner to stop the bout after the fourth round. 

‘The Highlight’ return to the octagon remains uncertain. He disclosed that he will have a discussion with his family and close ones about whether to return to the octagon one more time and defend the title or hang up the gloves. 

That said, Gaethje has said that Tsarukyan will be his next challenge if he returns. 

Justin Gaethje confirms Arman Tsarukyan is next in line

In his recent appearance on the Flagrant YouTube channel, Gaethje doubled down on the fact that he will enjoy the fruits of being champion for the rest of the year, ruling out a return this year, and said he will decide whether to be back or not next year. If he does, he will defend his title against Tsarukyan. 

“ 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 the rest of the year. I'm going to make a business decision and a life decision whenever the time comes,” Gaethje said.

Tsarukyan is an elite wrestler, but he shocked everyone when he knocked out Ruffy. Gaethje, who was a heavy underdog, won the fight against Topuria with an impressive performance. 

With momentum on both fighters' sides, it will be an exciting fight for fans.