“Just on Another Level”: Chris Duncan Says Arman Tsarukyan Is Undeniably Next for Justin Gaethje’s Title

Mauricio Ruffy showed strong takedown defense against a skilled wrestler like Arman Tsarukyan in Los Angeles on September 19.

However, it wasn’t enough. The Armenian star landed two flush elbows and knocked out the Brazilian striker in the first round. Having watched the fight closely, Chris Duncan echoed many fans' and critics’ opinions.

Chris Duncan Backs Arman Tsarukyan for the Title Shot

"I think Ruffy did an amazing job with the underhooks, but Arman did a great job tying up his hands while trying to get the takedown and throwing a sneaky elbow. Arman is definitely next to challenge Justin Gaethje for the title," Duncan said in talks with Home of Fight. 

Feared as one of the division’s vicious strikers, Mauricio Ruffy landed nothing clean. Although he did some damage in the initial minutes of the round, Tsarukyan absorbed it. 

While Ruffy was focused on defending one of Tsarukyan’s takedowns, the latter found an opening and landed two strong elbows, ending the bout at the 4:56 mark of the first round.

Following his victory, Dana White acknowledged Tsarukyan’s UFC run and his increasing global stardom. He also stated that Tsarukyan is next in line for the title. 

Arman Tsarukyan vs. Justin Gaethje Is Next? 

The champion has put the title conversation to rest by naming Arman Tsarukyan as the next worthy contender over ex-champion Ilia Topuria. 

"It's not that I don't want to fight Arman; it really isn't. He's the next in line. If and when I defend this championship, that will be who I fight," Gaethje said in an interview. 

However, the newly crowned champion is recovering from injuries and won’t return until early 2027. Although he named the challenger, Gaethje didn’t confirm the return timeline. 

"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," he concluded. 

Considering the current situation, Tsarukyan is likely to get his first title shot soon after years of waiting and a six-fight win streak. It will be interesting to watch whether he becomes the next king of the division or Gaethje does the unexpected.