Arman Tsarukyan Boldly Claims Amateur Dagestani Fighter Could Finish Ilia Topuria

Tsarukyan missed out on a title shot earlier at UFC 311 when he pulled out of his fight against Makhachev due to a back injury. However, he has kept himself active and vocal, emphasizing his wrestling and overall MMA skill set. He argues that those credentials merit a shot at Topuria’s belt. According to Tsarukyan, Topuria is somewhat reluctant when it comes to choosing his next opponent.

The rivalry has included escalating verbal challenges as Tsarukyan has offered wagers and accused the champion of avoiding him. He also claimed he would beat Topuria via wrestling or grappling dominance. Topuria, for his part, has responded in public comments that Tsarukyan must prove himself further, or that taking on the Armenian star doesn’t align with his following fight plans.

Whatever happens, the rivalry has already become one of the defining tensions in the lightweight division. With implications not just for who holds the belt, but also for how UFC structures its matchmaking and what styles get rewarded at the top. It remains to be seen how Ilia Topuria replies to Arman Tsarukyans comments.

Popular UFC lightweight weighs in on the potential Arman Tsarukyan vs Ilia Topuria fight

Tensions in the UFC’s lightweight division have extended beyond the Octagon, as fighters and analysts continue to weigh in on potential matchups and rivalries. Discussions around who could dominate 155-pound kingpin Ilia Topuria have been a central topic. While many have chosen Arman Tsarukyan due to his relentless grappling, Brazilian star Renato Moicano recently diminished the Armenian’s prowess.

Moicano positioned Topuria as a skillful fighter whose striking and finishing ability would present a significant challenge for Tsarukyan. Moicano’s assessment reflects the broader recognition of Topuria’s skill set, including his knockout power and effective stand-up game, which have been key factors in his rapid rise within the UFC ranks.

I don’t think Arman Tsarukyan is as good as people think. I think Topuria would screw him. I have nothing against Arman, but Arman isn’t a guy I’d be friends with.

Renato Moicano via Laerte Viana MMA

While Arman Tsarukyan remains one of the lightweight division’s most technically skilled grapplers, Moicano’s comparison highlights the stylistic clash between his wrestling-heavy approach and Topuria’s striking-oriented strategy. Analysts note that such matchups often favor fighters who can impose their strengths effectively, and Ilia Topuria’s recent performances have underscored his ability to do just that.