The UFC's decision to bypass Arman Tsarukyan for a title shot has been a hot topic, but Daniel Cormier now sees the bigger picture. A controversial move, but was it a strategic masterstroke?
Tsarukyan's exclusion from the lightweight title fight at UFC 324 left many fans and analysts perplexed. The Armenian fighter, ranked No. 1 in the division, seemed like the obvious choice. However, his antics outside the cage may have played a role in the UFC's decision.
But here's where it gets intriguing: Cormier, a former heavyweight and light heavyweight champion, initially shared the confusion. Yet, after witnessing Justin Gaethje's victory over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, a realization dawned.
Cormier acknowledged the significance of the main event, stating, 'It feels like a massive fight...worthy of a massive card.' With Gaethje's win, the UFC secured an American champion, a strategic move for the promotion's interests. Cormier admitted, 'I don't know how we missed it.'
And this is the part most people miss: The UFC's decision, while controversial, may have been a calculated risk. By having an American champion, the promotion potentially gains more traction in its home market. This could be a win-win situation, but is it fair to the deserving contenders?
UFC legend Demetrious Johnson added fuel to the fire, stating that Tsarukyan should have been in the title picture. He believes Tsarukyan has what it takes to dethrone the current champion, Ilia Topuria. But with the White House fight between Gaethje and Topuria on the horizon, the UFC might have had a bigger plan all along.
So, was the UFC's move a strategic genius or an unfair snub? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. The world of MMA never fails to spark debate!
