Arman Tsarukyan is widely recognized for his exceptional skill set and athleticism in mixed martial arts, positioning him as a prime contender to challenge Ilia Topuria for dominance in the UFC lightweight division. Though Tsarukyan has yet to compete for the lightweight title, many view him as one of the elite fighters at 155 pounds. His potential to dethrone Topuria is backed by MMA legend Demetrious Johnson, following recent training sessions with Tsarukyan.
Topuria is slated to return to the octagon this June at the UFC White House event against the interim lightweight champion, Justin Gaethje. Despite Topuria’s favored status, Johnson asserts that Tsarukyan’s blend of athleticism, technique, and mindset makes him the only fighter capable of overcoming ‘El Matador.’
“After training with him, if he fights Ilia Topuria, I think he has the athletic ability, the skill set as a mixed martial artist and the mindset to be able to beat Ilia Topuria,”
Johnson shared on his YouTube channel.
“Does he deserve a title shot over Justin Gaethje? To be honest with you, Arman Tsarukyan should be fighting, should have fought either Justin Gaethje or Paddy Pimblett for the interim championship.
Arman should be fighting the winner of Justin Gaethje vs Ilia Topuria… I think Arman Tsarukyan has the best chance in the lightweight division of beating Ilia Topuria.”
Physical Advantages and Future Weight Class Plans
At 29 years old, Tsarukyan’s physical presence offers a notable size and strength advantage over Topuria, who is generally smaller in stature. While Tsarukyan has occasionally struggled to make the 155-pound limit, he has expressed openness to moving down to featherweight. This possible shift would create opportunities to pursue both the featherweight title against Alexander Volkanovski and the lightweight crown in the future, enhancing his championship ambitions.
Maintaining Momentum Outside the UFC While Awaiting Title Shot Opportunities
Since withdrawing from his scheduled lightweight title fight against Islam Makhachev last January, Tsarukyan has faced challenges within the UFC, including a period of diminished favor. To stay competitive and sharp, he has competed in various disciplines outside the UFC, including wrestling and grappling matches. Since his victory over Dan Hooker last November, Tsarukyan has fought three times across different promotions, maintaining his activity despite setbacks in UFC matchmaking.
Tsarukyan is set to compete in a wrestling bout against Georgio Poullas on February 28 at RAF 6, further showcasing his athletic versatility as he awaits a return to UFC title contention.
Significance of Tsarukyan’s Athleticism in the Lightweight Division
Tsarukyan’s combination of size, skill, and mindset presents a significant challenge to Ilia Topuria’s reign. Despite organizational hurdles and recent delays in title opportunities, his athleticism and tactical abilities make him a formidable opponent in the lightweight division. If Tsarukyan capitalizes on his physical advantages and maintains momentum, he could disrupt the current championship landscape and play a pivotal role in reshaping the division’s hierarchy.
