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Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev (Image Source: Getty)
Tensions are rising in the UFC lightweight division as Arman Tsarukyan openly dismissed Ilia Topuria and his bold ambitions. The Georgian-born Spaniard has been vocal about moving up and challenging Islam Makhachev.
Topuria has even suggested that he could submit the dominant Dagestani champion. However, Tsarukyan has reacted strongly to that claim and made it clear that he does not believe Topuria has any realistic chance in such a matchup.The rivalry between Tsarukyan and Topuria has also added fuel to the situation. Both fighters have openly traded verbal blows in recent interviews. While Topuria prepares for a major title unification bout, Tsarukyan continues to build his case as a top contender.
Their ongoing feud has now become one of the most talked-about storylines in the lightweight division, with fans eagerly watching how things unfold.
Arman Tsarukyan dismisses Ilia Topuria’s matchup ambitions with Islam Makhachev amid heated rivalry
During a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, Arman Tsarukyan strongly rejected Ilia Topuria’s idea of submitting Islam Makhachev. He suggested that Topuria has no real chance of beating the champion. According to Tsarukyan, if Topuria were to win, it would more likely come through striking rather than grappling.
He even implied that Makhachev’s submission defense is so strong that not even Khabib Nurmagomedov would be able to submit him.
Tsarukyan’s comments show the respect Makhachev commands in the grappling department. The champion has built his reputation on dominant wrestling and control. This makes Topuria’s submission claim seem unrealistic in the eyes of many fighters.Meanwhile, Topuria has not held back in his response. He has openly criticized Tsarukyan, questioning both his fighting ability and personal image.
In a recent statement, Topuria claimed that he plans to finish Tsarukyan quickly when they meet. He suggested that Tsarukyan would not be able to handle his pressure or skill set inside the octagon. Topuria also took personal shots, accusing Tsarukyan of relying on family wealth and portraying himself poorly in public.The rivalry has now turned deeply personal. Topuria has even stated in the past that he would rather give up his belt than fight Tsarukyan under certain circumstances.
This shows how intense their dislike for each other has become.Looking ahead, Topuria is set to face Justin Gaethje in a major lightweight title unification bout in UFC Freedom 250. On the other hand, Tsarukyan is coming off an impressive submission win over Dan Hooker. While his next fight with Conor Benn is yet to be confirmed, he remains focused.



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