UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has offered new information regarding Ilia Topuria’s anticipated return to the Octagon. While fans eagerly await Topuria’s next fight, Tsarukyan’s comments provide clarity on the timeline for his comeback within the UFC landscape. This update centers around the hopes and plans for Topuria’s return early in 2024.
Speculation Surrounding Topuria’s Next Opponent and Timeline
There has been widespread speculation about Ilia Topuria’s future bouts, with many fans debating whether his next opponent will be Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan himself, or another fighter altogether. Regardless of who steps into the cage with him, Topuria’s performance has steadily elevated his status in mixed martial arts, earning him increasing attention among the sport’s rising stars.
Tsarukyan recently remarked in an interview with Adam Zubayraev that Topuria aims to return to competition in January or February of 2024. Meanwhile, Tsarukyan noted that because he has not fought recently, he is expecting to compete sometime in October or November. Discussions with UFC officials are underway to arrange a suitable match for him soon.
Potential Venues and Opponents for Upcoming Fights
Tsarukyan revealed several possibilities concerning locations and opponents for forthcoming bouts, mentioning venues such as Abu Dhabi or Qatar. Regarding his next adversary, Tsarukyan pointed to several candidates, including Justin Gaethje, Dan Hooker, and Paddy Pimblett, with a particular preference for facing the latter.
“(Topuria) wants to come back in January or February,”
—Arman Tsarukyan, UFC Lightweight
“In Abu Dhabi or in Qatar…maybe Gaethje, maybe (Dan) Hooker, maybe Paddy,”
—Arman Tsarukyan, UFC Lightweight
Implications for UFC Lightweight Division and Fan Expectations
If Topuria does not return before the end of 2023, attention will increasingly turn to other fighters within the lightweight division to establish themselves as top contenders. Fans continue to debate who should face Topuria next and whether he might eventually compete in a higher weight class, such as welterweight. His progression in the division remains a key storyline for UFC followers.
Tsarukyan’s remarks contribute to setting expectations around the timeline and potential matchups in the coming months, providing a clearer picture of what lies ahead for Ilia Topuria and the lightweight rankings.