Quick Read
- Arman Tsarukyan declares himself the toughest opponent for Ilia Topuria.
- The rivalry heats up as Tsarukyan takes the backup role for UFC 317.
- Topuria dismisses Tsarukyan’s chances, claiming he would win in the first round.
- Tsarukyan is on a four-fight win streak, including a victory over Charles Oliveira.
- UFC 317’s main event between Topuria and Oliveira has sparked bold predictions.
The verbal jabs are flying ahead of UFC 317, and Arman Tsarukyan isn’t pulling any punches. In a sharp response to Ilia Topuria’s recent comments, Tsarukyan boldly declared, “I’m the worst possible matchup for you in this division.” The Armenian lightweight, currently on a four-fight win streak, isn’t shy about claiming his spot among the elite.
Backup Fighter, Not Backup Plans
UFC CEO Dana White recently confirmed that Tsarukyan will serve as the backup fighter for the highly anticipated lightweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira, set to take place this weekend at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. According to Sportskeeda, Topuria criticized Tsarukyan for accepting the role, mocking the idea of him being prepared to step in. “What’s he going to do? Go for the takedowns? Bro, come on,” Topuria scoffed.
But Tsarukyan, undeterred, hit back via social media, pointing out that Topuria is fighting a man Tsarukyan has already defeated. In a pointed X (formerly Twitter) post, he wrote, “You better pray nothing happens to Charles, because I’m the worst possible matchup for you.”
A Rivalry Ignited
The animosity between the two fighters has simmered for months, but UFC 317 has brought it to a boil. Topuria, the fiery Spaniard, is riding high after a string of impressive victories and a quick ascent through the ranks. Yet, Tsarukyan’s recent performance—a split-decision win over Oliveira at UFC 300 and a subsequent shot at Islam Makhachev, which he missed due to injury—cements his claim as a legitimate threat.
“There’s a reason you’re not fighting me for the belt,” Tsarukyan remarked in his online retort, referencing his dominant standing in the division. The 26-year-old Armenian has proven himself a versatile fighter, capable of trading strikes or dominating on the mat. According to BJPenn, Tsarukyan’s confidence isn’t misplaced, as his grappling-heavy style poses unique challenges for strikers like Topuria.
Predicting the Clash
Even as Tsarukyan and Topuria trade barbs, the main event between Topuria and Oliveira remains the focal point. MMA coach Javier Mendez, in an interview with MMA Junkie, predicted a close fight but leaned toward Topuria. “He might even be stronger than Charles,” Mendez noted, attributing Topuria’s move up in weight to improved performance.
Yet, Mendez’s assessment doesn’t dismiss Oliveira’s credentials. The Brazilian remains a dangerous opponent with a history of thrilling finishes. As the two prepare to clash, fans are left wondering what role, if any, Tsarukyan might play in the unfolding drama. Will he remain a spectator, or will he step in to rewrite the narrative?
A Fight Beyond the Cage
For Tsarukyan, this isn’t just about rankings or titles—it’s personal. His exchanges with Topuria reflect a broader fight for respect in a division crowded with talent. And for the Armenian fighter, every opportunity, even as a backup, is a chance to prove he belongs at the very top.
Sometimes, the fiercest battles are fought before the cage door even closes.