Ilia Topuria in face with Paddy Pimblett No. UFC 317. Photo: Reproduction/UFC
While Arman Tsarukyan publicly takes a stand against the duel between Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett, El Matador doesn't seem to see many differences between a confrontation with the Armenian and the Englishman. In fact, the lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg.) sees an easier path to victory precisely against the current number one in the category ranking.
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The Georgian/Spanish recalled Tsarukyan's withdrawal from the title fight with Islam makhachev earlier this year. The two were set to face each other for the belt in the main event of the UFC 311, but the Armenian had to withdraw a day before the weigh-in after suffering a back injury.
“He’s a lot easier than Paddy… Imagine having the opportunity to fight for the world title and when the day comes you pull out because your back hurts… I would have fought without an arm. I don’t care.”
Ilia Topuria says Arman Tsarukyan is an easier fight for him than Paddy Pimblett
“He's much easier than Paddy… Imagine having the opportunity to fight for the world title, and when the day comes, you pull out because your back hurts…
I would've fought without an arm. I… pic.twitter.com/JqcFD7HGHo
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) July 4, 2025
Topuria is going through an impressive phase in the UFC
Ilia Topuria knocked out Charles of the Bronx in the first round. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.
At just 28 years old, El Matador is enjoying one of the best winning streaks in the organization's history. He knocked out Alexander Volkanovsky, Max Holloway e Charles of the Bronx subsequently, in addition to capturing the featherweight (up to 65,7 kg.) and lightweight (up to 70,3 kg.) titles in the process. To crown his good moment, the Georgian/Spanish was elevated to the first position in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, beating Islam makhachev.
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