Arman Tsarukyan recently expressed optimism about securing a title fight against Ilia Topuria, believing there is a strong chance for the matchup to happen soon. The discussion around the Ilia Topuria title fight chances highlights Tsarukyan’s confidence despite competition from other leading contenders in the lightweight division.
Tsarukyan has made it clear that he wants to challenge Topuria for the lightweight championship, although Topuria himself has dismissed the possibility, stating that Tsarukyan must first earn the No. 1 contender position. Despite this, Tsarukyan remains focused on proving his worth in the division.
In an interview shared by Home of Fight on social media, Tsarukyan told Kamil Gadzhiev that his next fight will be for the 155-pound belt. He claimed that the UFC has not offered him any opponents aside from Topuria, and negotiations are only taking place regarding a title bout.
”I’m number one in the rankings but the UFC can do whatever they want. Even if I won’t get a title shot next, if I keep winning they won’t have a choice but to give me one. I think there is a 70 percent chance I’ll fight Topuria next. They didn’t even offer me anyone else. We’re only negotiating about a title fight.”
—Arman Tsarukyan, UFC Lightweight Contender
Previously, Tsarukyan earned a title shot against then-champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 311; however, he had to withdraw due to a back injury. Dana White later remarked that Tsarukyan would need to earn the No. 1 contender spot before another title opportunity.
After recovering, Tsarukyan remained determined to make his case and even served as a backup fighter for the UFC 317 main event between Topuria and Charles Oliveira, a fight for the vacant lightweight title. His persistence underlines his commitment to securing a future championship bout.
MMA Expert Discusses Ilia Topuria’s Reluctance to Face Tsarukyan
Ilia Topuria appears hesitant to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan, a hesitation that has drawn criticism from Tsarukyan. This scenario was examined by MMA analyst Luke Thomas, who shared insights on the dynamic between fighters and UFC matchups.
Thomas pointed out in a recent video that fighters often claim they will avoid certain opponents, but this seldom affects the UFC’s matchmaking decisions. He suggested that Topuria, despite having some leverage as champion, will likely have to face Tsarukyan if the organization dictates so.
”These guys being like, ‘Oh, I’ll never fight so and so’, like they’re boxers or something…I realize that Topuria probably now certainly has more leverage than he ever has…you see this all the time. This is what they tell the public…they almost never follow through with it…Like this idea like…I’m never going to give this guy a shot. Yeah, you are. If the UFC want you to, you will…first of all, a lot of fighters and Ilia in particular says a lot of bullsh*t right?”
—Luke Thomas, MMA Analyst
Thomas underscored the common nature of these public statements but emphasized that the ultimate decision rests with the UFC’s matchmaking authority, which dictates title fights and contender matchups.
As Tsarukyan pushes forward in the lightweight division rankings, his focus on securing a title opportunity against Ilia Topuria reflects the tension and high stakes in UFC’s championship picture. With the champion’s hesitation and the promotion’s intentions playing critical roles, the potential fight represents a pivotal moment for both athletes and the division’s future. Tsarukyan’s declared 70% chance to face Topuria suggests fans may soon see this highly anticipated contest come to fruition.