UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has intensified his campaign for a title shot against reigning champion Ilia Topuria, sparking debates over the division’s future. Currently ranked No. 1 in the division, Tsarukyan expressed confidence in securing the opportunity during a recent interview with Kamil Gadzhiev, shared by combat sports outlet Home of Fight on social media. “I’m number one in the rankings, but the UFC can do whatever they want,” Tsarukyan stated. “Even if I don’t get the title shot next, if I keep winning, they won’t have a choice. I think there’s a 70% chance I’ll fight Topuria next—we’re only negotiating about a title fight.”
Topuria, however, has publicly dismissed Tsarukyan’s claims, insisting the Armenian fighter must first solidify his status as the division’s top contender. The champion’s stance echoes UFC President Dana White’s earlier remarks, who clarified that Tsarukyan would need to re-establish his position after withdrawing from a scheduled title bout against former champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 due to a back injury. Following his recovery, Tsarukyan served as a backup fighter for the UFC 317 main event in June, where Topuria claimed the vacant title by defeating Charles Oliveira.
Veteran MMA analyst Luke Thomas weighed in on the brewing rivalry during a YouTube analysis, suggesting Topuria’s reluctance may not ultimately dictate the UFC’s matchmaking decisions. “Fighters often say they’ll never face certain opponents, but history shows they usually comply with the promotion’s plans,” Thomas said. “Topuria has more leverage now as champion, but if the UFC wants this fight, it’ll happen. Let’s be real—fighters, especially Ilia, sometimes say things that don’t hold up.”
Tsarukyan’s pursuit adds complexity to a crowded lightweight landscape, where contenders like Oliveira and Justin Gaethje also vie for opportunities. His recent victories, including a contentious split decision win over Mateusz Gamrot, have kept him in title conversations, though critics argue he needs a definitive statement victory. The UFC has yet to announce Topuria’s first defense, with speculation mounting over whether organizational priorities or competitive merit will shape the next matchup.
As negotiations continue, Tsarukyan remains focused on his goal: “They didn’t offer me anyone else—just the title fight. I’ll keep proving I deserve it.” Meanwhile, Topuria’s team has not publicly commented on potential opponents, leaving fans and analysts awaiting the promotion’s next move in a division brimming with unresolved rivalries.
