Arman Tsarukyan believes he would hold the edge over UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria in every facet of the game, and he’s making a push to be next in line for a title shot. The 28-year-old, who is 23-3 overall with a 9-2 UFC record, contends he deserves the opportunity as the then No. 1 contender. Topuria, undefeated at 17-0 (9-0 UFC), has held the title and Tsarukyan has been vocal about stopping him.
Tsarukyan withdrew from a scheduled fight with Islam Makhachev just a day before UFC 311 in January, and has not fought since his April 2024 victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. He told the JAXXON Podcast that he believes he’s the biggest threat to Topuria, even on the feet, and that his own kicking, elbows and knees will give him the advantage in addition to his wrestling.
“Of course I deserve it. I’m No. 1 contender, and they’ve got to give me this fight because I’m the next UFC champion. It’s my belt,” Tsarukyan said. “He has just one special thing, and it’s boxing. It’s not boxing, it’s MMA, and even in striking I’m better than him for sure. My kicks, elbows, my knees work always. He does just good boxing, and I can wrestle, as well. So, I just can’t wait to show everybody what’s my level.”
Looking ahead, Tsarukyan says he wants to stay active and defend the belt as much as possible, driven by a deep commitment to his craft and a belief that dedication will pay off. If he can dethrone Topuria, he’s already plotting for the next big target: Makhachev, who has since moved up to welterweight. “I’ll be waiting for him (Makhachev) at 155,” Tsarukyan said.
Summary: Tsarukyan is staking his claim as the next challenger to Ilia Topuria, arguing he can beat the champion in any area and highlighting his recent win over Charles Oliveira as proof of his readiness. He also signals a future run at Islam Makhachev at 155 pounds if the opportunity arises.
Additional value:
– The clash, if it happens, would be a stylistic showdown between Topuria’s elite boxing and Tsarukyan’s well-rounded, grind-heavy approach, including wrestling and kicking.
– Tsarukyan’s emphasis on staying active suggests he’d push for frequent fights, which could accelerate the title picture in a stacked 155-pound division.
– For fans, a Tsarukyan–Topuria title bout would be a high-stakes test of who can impose their game plan most effectively against a fast-rising, undefeated champion.