Arman Tsarukyan needs the UFC light-weight title, whether or not meaning beating Ilia Topuria or not.
It’s been six months since Tsarukyan was scheduled to problem then-champion Islam Makhachev for the 155-pound title at UFC 311, the place a again harm compelled Tsarukyan out of the primary occasion a day earlier than combat evening. A lot has modified since then, with Makhachev vacating the title to maneuver as much as welterweight, Topuria claiming that vacant title by knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, and Tsarukyan’s subsequent matchup nonetheless in limbo.
Topuria just lately appeared on a stay stream with the Nelk Boys wherein he said he would “by no means give [Tsarukyan] an opportunity.” He added that the UFC ought to “take my belt” if Tsarukyan doesn’t combat once more to earn the No. 1 contender spot first, citing considerations about whether or not Tsarukyan might be trusted to point out up for his or her combat.
Tsarukyan responded to the touch upon Twitter, writing, “Think about calling your self a champion, however you’re already searching for a approach out. You’ll be able to vacate it or I’ll take it. Both approach, it’s mine.”
Tsarukyan finds himself in a tricky spot with Paddy Pimblett seemingly being positioned to problem for the light-weight title subsequent on account of his private rivalry with Topuria, and veteran Justin Gaethje arguing he’s done enough to earn another shot at the belt. Making issues worse, UFC CEO Dana White beforehand mentioned Tsarukyan “will have to fight his way back” to a title shot after falling out of the Makhachev combat.
In 11 UFC appearances, Tsarukyan has solely misplaced twice: in his octagon debut to Makhachev in 2019 and in a Combat of the Evening efficiency in opposition to Mateusz Gamrot in 2022. He holds wins over Oliveira, Beneil Dariush, Damir Ismagulov, Joel Alvarez, Olivier Aubin-Mercier, amongst others, nevertheless it’s unclear what names he wants so as to add to that listing to regain the matchmakers’ confidence.
