A rivalry is brewing between Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan.
Ahead of UFC 317 this Saturday, where Topuria challenges Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title, Arman Tsarukyan is positioned as the official backup fighter. However, in a recent interview, Topuria commented that this was a poor decision for Tsarukyan.
Topuria elaborated, stating, “It’s a bad choice for him. I don’t know why he took it, because you shouldn`t come here just as a backup… How did he prepare for this fight? If something happens to either of us – even me, though I think nothing can happen to me, who knows what tomorrow brings? – He`d struggle a lot with Charles. And with me? He has zero chance. No chances. First round. Early in the fight. What`s his plan? Go for takedowns? Come on, man.”
Tsarukyan is on a four-fight win streak in the lightweight division, notably securing a split decision victory against Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. He was scheduled to face Islam Makhachev for the title at UFC 311, but withdrew shortly before the event due to weight cut complications. Following this, UFC CEO Dana White indicated Tsarukyan would need another win to reclaim a title shot opportunity, a sentiment Topuria echoes.
Topuria further stated his view on Tsarukyan`s title aspirations: “I wouldn`t give him the immediate shot. He needs to win another fight. He had his chance for the title but withdrew. Whatever the reason, he pulled out, so he has to earn his shot back against, well, I don`t know who. Someone. You have guys like Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, lots of fighters in the division who also deserve a title opportunity. They need to compete amongst themselves.”
As expected, Tsarukyan disagreed with Topuria`s assessment. He responded to the comments, issuing his own warning to his fellow fighter.
“You better pray nothing happens to Charles, because I’m the worst possible matchup for you in this division. There’s a reason you’re fighting the guy I already beat, and not me, for that belt.”
UFC 317 is scheduled for this Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
