Following Paddy Pimblett's loss to Justin Gaethje in the main event of UFC 324, contender Arman Tsarukyan issued strong statements on social media, harshly criticizing the Brit and calling him a "clown" for his status and title opportunity. Tsarukyan argued that Pimblett did not deserve the interim title and stated that he would be willing to face Gaethje himself, showing his intention to fight for gold in the future. His comments added an extra layer of media tension among the lightweights after an already much-talked-about event.