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Tsarukyan Challenges Topuria: Title Fight Brewing?

11/24/2025

38 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Arman Tsarukyan called out Ilia Topuria, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight champion, after Topuria's win over Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar.
He said Topuria is the No. 1 contender and would fight in January.
Topuria replied on social media, mocking Tsarukyan and saying he would vacate the title.
Tsarukyan fired back, accusing Topuria of insecurity and insisting the rivalry is professional.
The UFC has yet to confirm Topuria's next opponent.

History

Historical Context

Khabib Nurmagomedov became the UFC Lightweight Champion in April 2018 after defeating Al Iaquinta, marking the start of his historic reign until March 2021. His undefeated record of 29 wins and multiple title defenses, including against Dustin Poirier in September 2019, solidified his legacy. The current rivalry between Arman Tsarukyan and Ilia Topuria reflects the ongoing competitive spirit within the UFC.

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Story summary

Arman Tsarukyan called out Ilia Topuria, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight champion, after Topuria's win over Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar.
He said Topuria is the No. 1 contender and would fight in January.
Topuria replied on social media, mocking Tsarukyan and saying he would vacate the title.
Tsarukyan fired back, accusing Topuria of insecurity and insisting the rivalry is professional.
The UFC has yet to confirm Topuria's next opponent.

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