Former champion leaves Gaethje aside and defines the main threat to Ilia Topuria; understand why

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Ilia Topuria In training. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

In full preparation to unify the lightweight title against Justin gaethje right there in the White House, Ilia Topuria He is seen as the clear favorite to remain undefeated as a professional, both among fans and most members of the media. Michael BispingFor example, the main challenge for El Matador is, without a doubt, Arman TsarukyanHe spoke about this subject in a video posted on his social media this Thursday (23).

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According to the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg), there are no fighters in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg) capable of causing problems for the Georgian/Spanish fighter, with the exception of Tsarukyan, given the Armenian's grappling skills and physical imposing presence.

"Arman is probably one of the only real tests that Ilia Topuria It's possible. Ilia is precise, clinically and surgically, but I don't know if he can overcome it. Arman Tsarukyan "No wrestling," he stated.

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Michael Bisping says Arman Tsarukyan is the only real test left for Ilia Topuria

“Arman is probably one of the only real tests that Ilia Topuria might have. Ilia is precise, clinical, and surgical, but I don't know if he can outwrestle Arman Tsarukyan. "

(via @bisping ) pic.twitter.com/LVEa8dVesV

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 23, 2026

Tsarukyan has been more aggressive in his provocations against Topuria.

Ilia Topuria e Arman Tsarukyan are featured in the UFC. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS Montage

Clearly sidelined by Dana White and the UFC matchmakers in title-related decisions, Tsarukyan has been trying to stay relevant with fans and the media in an increasingly consistent manner. Recently, he publicly criticized... Ilia Topuria, even citing the Georgian/Spanish man's hair removal to question his adversary's masculinity.