‘It’s no secret’… Islam Makhachev accuses Ilia Topuria of ducking contender Khabib Nurmagomedov is sure will beat him

Islam Makhachev accuses Ilia Topuria of ‘ducking’ Arman Tsarukyan fight

Linked heavily in recent months with a title defense against the surging number two ranked Arman Tsarukyan, Topuria has so far played down a fight with the Armenian as well as former interim gold holder Justin Gaethje.

And also tied to a clash with the streaking grappling ace Paddy Pimblett, particularly following their face-off back in July, Topuria has been accused of intentionally avoiding a clash with Tsarukyan by his bitter rival, Makhachev.

“It’s no secret that Ilia’s (Topuria) been ducking Arman (Tsarukyan),” Makhachev told Tower_GSK.

“I’ve already seen some comments on the internet where he says, ‘I’d rather retire than fight Arman.’

“Arman has been on a good streak, and he must be the toughest test for the champion,” Makhachev continued.

Notably, on the back of Makhachev’s claims regarding Topuria’s stance on a fight with Armenian star Tsarukyan, a Hall of Fame icon fears a clash with the contender does not bode well for the new champion.

Khabib Nurmagomedov gives Ilia Topuria ‘no chance’ against Arman Tsarukyan

Sharing his thoughts on a potential grudge fight between Topuria and Tsarukyan, unbeaten former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has provided a rather stark prediction.

As far as the Dagestani grappling ace is concerned, Topuria really has “no chance” of beating Tsarukyan if they ever share the Octagon together.

“I don’t see Topuria having a chance [against Tsarukyan],” Nurmagomedov told Kamil Gadzhiyev. “Arman fights too well at range against strikers. He keeps his distance well, works better with his kicks, and now Arman has improved a lot.

“…If they fought three years ago, maybe he wouldn’t have been as cautious. But now, you can clearly see what dangers Topuria brings,” Nurmagomedov continued. “I believe right now, the best lightweight is (Tsarukyan).”