Arman Tsarukyan is poised to serve as the backup fighter for the UFC 318 main event, where Max Holloway will defend his BMF title against Dustin Poirier in what is expected to be Poirier’s final fight before retirement. Tsarukyan’s readiness to step in if needed reinforces his position as a prominent contender in the lightweight division and highlights the importance of having a reliable backup for such high-profile bouts.
Currently, Tsarukyan also holds the position of backup for the UFC 317 main event, a crucial matchup between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight championship. His involvement in these two pivotal events demonstrates the UFC’s confidence in his capabilities and readiness to compete on short notice.
Tsarukyan Clarifies Reasons Behind UFC 311 Fight Withdrawal
Earlier this year, Tsarukyan was scheduled for a UFC 311 rematch against Islam Makhachev but had to pull out due to a back injury. In a recent interview with Sportsnet, reshared by Championship Rounds on X, he addressed rumors about the fight cancellation, emphasizing that weight cutting was not the problem:
“The weight cut was good. It was easy. I never have an issue with weights. Everybody thinks what happened in California was because of the weight cut. I was good with my weight. I just hurt my back, and I couldn’t move, and that’s why I couldn’t cut my weight.”
—Arman Tsarukyan, UFC fighter
Tsarukyan further expressed his eagerness to prove that weight cutting has never been a hindrance for him. He also confirmed his willingness to back up the UFC 318 fight again, if called upon:
“And now, if you have a fight next month, I’ll take it as well and cut that weight as well… If they say you want to be backup again [for UFC 318: Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier 3] and there is a chance that someone is gonna pull out, then why not?”
—Arman Tsarukyan, UFC fighter
Intense Rivalry Emerges Ahead of UFC 317 Backup Fight
In the lead-up to UFC 317, a tense exchange unfolded between Tsarukyan and Ilia Topuria. Topuria dismissed Tsarukyan’s prospects in the lightweight division, doubting his chances in their potential matchup. Speaking to the New York Post Sports, Topuria stated:
“With me, [Arman] has no chances. First round, first minute, what’s he gonna do? Go for the takedowns. Bro, come on.”
—Ilia Topuria, UFC fighter
Responding to Topuria’s comments, Tsarukyan issued a stern warning to ‘El Matador’ on X, suggesting that he represents a major hurdle for Topuria in the division:
“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.”
—Arman Tsarukyan, UFC fighter
Implications for UFC Lightweight Division and Future Fights
Tsarukyan’s role as backup for the UFC 317 and UFC 318 events underscores his growing significance in the lightweight category. His readiness to step up, combined with his fierce exchange with Topuria, signals the unsettled dynamics near the division’s top ranks. Should injuries or other issues remove fighters from these headline events, Tsarukyan is ideally positioned to capitalize on those opportunities.
His determination to demonstrate reliability in weight management and fight preparedness may influence future UFC matchmaking decisions, possibly leading to more prominent title contention. Additionally, the rivalry with Topuria hints at potential high-stakes bouts that could shape the division’s hierarchy after UFC 318 concludes Dustin Poirier’s illustrious career.