After defeating Dan Hooker, Arman Tsarukyan shifted his focus to challenging UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, asserting his readiness for a title shot and expressing confidence in his ability to win.
Arman Tsarukyan knew the questions about UFC lightweight champ Ilia Topuria were coming. So, he kept his focus on Dan Hooker, the task at hand.
After swiftly submitting Hooker in the second round at UFC Qatar, Tsarukyan shifted his sights to Topuria. Topuria snagged the vacant lightweight title in July but hasn’t defended it yet. Tsarukyan believes he’s the obvious contender.
“I didn’t want to mention Ilia too much,” Tsarukyan said post-fight. “Now, I’ll make viral videos, jokes—bring eyes to the fight. It’s a media sport; you’ve got to be a showman.”
Tsarukyan is confident. “I can strike at a distance, but if he tries to box, I’ll take him down. I believe I can beat him easily.”
During fight week, Tsarukyan and Topuria crossed paths but didn’t acknowledge each other. Tsarukyan didn’t realize Topuria was there, and even if he had, he wasn’t looking for a confrontation.
“To be honest, I didn’t see him,” Tsarukyan admitted. “If I had, maybe I’d have tried to catch his gaze. But it’s all media hype, nothing personal.”
Despite this, Tsarukyan thinks Topuria is avoiding him, especially after his performance against Hooker. “Ask him what he thinks of my fight,” Tsarukyan said. “He probably doesn’t want to fight me.”
Topuria hasn’t commented, focusing instead on cornering his brother. He’s hinted at moving to welterweight, possibly to pursue a fight with Islam Makhachev.
“He should move up,” Tsarukyan said. “If he won’t fight me, leave the title. I’m open to any challenge.”
After a long break, Tsarukyan was thrilled to be back, defeating another top contender. He’s eager for a title shot, ready to fight as soon as January.
“I can rest a week, then fly to the U.S.,” Tsarukyan said about a January fight. “I’m injury-free, and I’m ready for a main event with Topuria, whether in Vegas or L.A.”
He’s poised and prepared. Waiting for that call.