Arman Tsarukyan Unwilling To Wait For Topuria

Arman Tsarukyan has revealed that he has been told Ilia Topuria wants to wait until January or February to return to the octagon.

Unwilling to sit on the sidelines, Tsarukyan has his sights set on facing either Justin Gaethje, Dan Hooker, or Paddy Pimblett. Tsarukyan’s update comes after he accused Topuria of ducking him after the latter stopped Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in June to win the vacant lightweight belt.

“(Topuria) wants to come back in January or February. And I haven’t fought in a long time. So I think I’ll need to fight in October or November. And I talked to the boss yesterday. They said maybe they will set up a fight with someone. In Abu Dhabi or in Qatar…maybe Gaethje, maybe (Dan) Hooker, maybe Paddy,” Tsarukyan added, pointing to the Scouser as his preferred opponent,” Arman said 

The Reasoning

Tsarukyan’s frustration is understandable. He recently fought Charles Oliveira at UFC 300, and beat him. He was on course to face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title before the latter vacated, however, Arman had to pull out of UFC 311 with a back injury. And given that Oliveira got a title shot before him, Tsarukyan would have a right to feel aggrieved. 

Tsarukyan’s decision to pursue other fights is a strategic move. For example, a win over Justin Gaethje, a former interim champion known for his all-action style, would solidify Tsarukyan’s status as a top contender and a marketable star. A fight against Dan Hooker, a fan favorite known for his toughness and striking, would be a good test for Tsarukyan. While Pimblett has been dismissive of Tsarukyan in the past, a win over “The Baddy” would not only be a huge payday but would also put him on the fast track to a title shot.