Ilia Topuria, the newly crowned UFC lightweight champion, has stirred controversy by reportedly avoiding a title defense against top contender Arman Tsarukyan, igniting intense debate around the Ilia Topuria UFC title controversy. Following his victory at UFC 317, where he claimed the vacant lightweight crown, Topuria has yet to confirm a matchup with Tsarukyan, fueling backlash from fans and insiders alike.

Topuria’s hesitation comes after Tsarukyan, the number two contender, regained momentum for a title shot despite a previous withdrawal from UFC 311 weigh-ins due to injury. Topuria has openly questioned Tsarukyan’s worthiness, even suggesting he would prefer to relinquish the belt than accept the Armenian fighter’s challenge. This stance has divided opinions within the UFC community, with UFC CEO Dana White indicating that Tsarukyan’s ranking will no longer guarantee an automatic title opportunity but acknowledging his progress towards championship contention.

Divided Opinions on Tsarukyan’s Title Shot Prospects

Arman Tsarukyan remains a focal point in lightweight title discussions, seen by many as the rightful challenger to Topuria’s championship. However, doubts persist due to Tsarukyan’s lesser pay-per-view appeal compared to other contenders, leaving some to question if he is the optimal choice for the next title bout. Despite this, Tsarukyan himself has maintained a confident public presence, frequently provoking Topuria to accept the fight.

Prominent voices in the MMA world have weighed in on the dispute. Former two-division champion Henry Cejudo cautioned Topuria against dismissing Tsarukyan, warning that such attitudes risk alienating the fighter from the UFC’s support. Cejudo stated,

“[Topuria] saying he’d never give Arman a chance for the belt, he’d rather relinquish that. The UFC does not want to hear that, man…Once you start thinking you’re bigger than the UFC, you start to become public enemy number one.”
—Henry Cejudo on ‘Pound 4 Pound’ Podcast

Cejudo’s warning recalls historical friction within UFC title dynamics, notably referencing Jon Jones’ prolonged delay in unifying the heavyweight titles and Movsar Evloev’s stalled rise in the featherweight division. Justin Gaethje’s outspoken frustrations further highlight frustrations felt by fighters who feel overlooked despite high rankings and merit. These examples underline the unpredictable nature of UFC title bookings beyond rank alone.

Tsarukyan Challenges Topuria to Make the Fight or Vacate the Title

Ilia Topuria’s undefeated record of 17-0 and accomplishments as a two-division champion place him among the UFC’s rising stars, yet his reluctance to defend against Tsarukyan casts doubt on his championship reign’s legitimacy in some circles. During a recent media session, Tsarukyan openly challenged Topuria’s reluctance, suggesting that if the champion fears losing, he should relinquish the title rather than avoid the fight.

At a UFC 319 open workout media event, Tsarukyan asserted his confidence and desire for the title fight with Topuria, stating,

“If he feels he’s going to lose that fight, it’s better to give up the belt and go up, or wait for what happens with me…He knows I’m a big problem for him, and I’m going to get his title. He knows that, and he wants to get an easy fight – with Paddy, Gaethje, or somebody.”
—Arman Tsarukyan to MMAJunkie for UFC 319 Open workout media day session

This direct challenge underscores the tension between the two fighters and the growing impatience among fans and analysts who expect the UFC to prioritize meritocracy in title shots. Tsarukyan’s taunting includes social media videos, notably mimicking Jon Jones’ “duck” trolling, aimed at stirring public support and applying pressure on Topuria.

The Wider Lightweight Division Drama and Title Shot Competition

Tsarukyan is not alone in vying for Topuria’s Lightweight Championship; other prominent figures like Paddy Pimblett have publicly expressed interest in the title fight, predicting that Tsarukyan might be passed over. Pimblett and others argue they possess the attributes to deliver a more lucrative or exciting contest. Meanwhile, Justin Gaethje’s recent public frustrations and rumored retirement talks add layers of complexity to the division’s fight bookings.

Behind the scenes, UFC matchmakers face significant challenges balancing fighter rankings, marketability, and existing relationships with UFC executives. The fallout from Topuria’s reluctance to face Tsarukyan may influence UFC’s future matchmaking decisions and fighter engagement strategies. Observers speculate that the company may look beyond rigid rankings when determining contenders for financial and promotional considerations.

Implications for UFC’s Lightweight Titles and Matchmaking Policies

The ongoing dispute between Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan accentuates broader issues regarding UFC’s title shot allocation and fighter management. If Topuria continues to reject Tsarukyan’s challenge, he risks alienation from fans, peers, and UFC leadership, potentially earning the label of “public enemy number one,” as warned by Cejudo. This controversy highlights the tension that can arise when competitive merit collides with promotional strategy and personal interests.

How UFC resolves this standoff will have significant consequences for the lightweight division’s future, shaping whether the championship path rewards pure rankings or broader entertainment considerations. With other contenders pressing their cases, Topuria’s next moves and UFC’s matchmaking decisions are poised to define the division’s landscape for months ahead.

As it stands, the lightweight title scene is charged with uncertainty and heightened emotions, leaving fight fans eagerly awaiting clarity on whether Tsarukyan will finally receive his long-awaited title shot or if the controversy will deepen into a prolonged dispute.