Lightweight confirmed to be Ilia Topuria's next UFC opponent: '70 percent'

Arman Tsarukyan believes he is the next challenger for the lightweight title. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

even though Ilia Topuria keep the doors closed in the speeches he makes in reference to Arman Tsarukyan, the Russian is convinced that he will be the Spaniard's next opponent in the fight for the lightweight division belt (up to 70,3 kg). If the prediction comes true, Paddy Pimblett would lose his position as a challenger in the scene after a 'shoving match' in the octagon of UFC 317, when Ilia knocked Charles of the Bronx.

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"I'm ranked number one, but the UFC can do whatever they want. Even if I don't get a title shot, if I keep winning, they'll have no choice but to give me one. I think I have a 70% chance of fighting Topuria next. They haven't even offered me anyone else. We're just negotiating a title fight," he said. Arman Tsarukyan to Russian journalist Kamil Gadzhiev.

Tsarukyan provoked Topuria this Sunday (3)

Arman Tsarukyan continues its journey of provocations against Ilia Topuria. The Russian made a reference to a quote from Islam makhachev printed on one of the walls of the UFC Performance Institute to attack the current number 1 in the pound-for-pound ranking of the largest MMA organization in the world.

"Islam has a great quote in UFC IP, he'll fight anyone, anytime, anywhere. Hey Dana, maybe now would be a good time to put a quote in the bathroom for Ilia reminding him not to sit while peeing - thanks boss," Tsarukyan wrote in a post on 'X' (formerly Twitter).

Islam has a great quote at the UFC PI, he will fight anyone, anytime, and anywhere – Hey Dana maybe now's a good time to put a quote in the bathroom for Ilia reminding him not to sit down while pissing – thanks boss

— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) August 3, 2025

Ilia Topuria does not want to face Arman Tsarukyan

Ilia Topuria is a rival Arman Tsarukyan. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage

PUBLICITY:

Since the victory against Charles of the Bronx in the main fight of UFC 317, Ilia Topuria snubbed the Armenian while still inside the octagon when facing Paddy PimblettSince then, it seems that the Englishman will be considered the first challenger for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg). As for Tsarukyan, it will probably be necessary to find a new opponent for the next round.