Tsarukyan Guaranteed Title Shot; Smith Pleads Not Guilty; Makhachev/Garry Next Steps

Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 1 contender in the UFC's lightweight division, has been assured a title shot by UFC official Hunter Campbell following his upcoming fight against Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331. Tsarukyan expressed his eagerness for the bout, noting it will be a career-high payday, which influenced his decision to remain active.

In other UFC developments, former fighter and current commentator Anthony Smith has pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from a recent arrest, now facing a fourth felony charge. Additionally, matchmaking discussions are underway for the next steps for prominent fighters Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry following their performances at UFC 330.