Arman Tsarukyan picks surprising name for Ilia Topuria’s next opponent
MMA Fighting • • sports
Key Points:
- Arman Tsarukyan predicts Ilia Topuria's return fight will be against veteran Michael Chandler as a tune-up before Topuria re-enters the lightweight title contention following his loss to Justin Gaethje.
- Topuria is currently recovering from facial injuries sustained in his June defeat, with his next fight timeline still uncertain.
- Tsarukyan is set to face Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on September 19, with the winner expected to challenge Gaethje for the lightweight title.
- Tsarukyan considers himself the No. 1 contender and aims to maintain his ranking by winning the upcoming fight, potentially setting up future matchups with top lightweight fighters including Topuria.
- Despite a longstanding rivalry, a fight between Tsarukyan and Topuria has yet to happen, but it remains a possibility if Tsarukyan secures the championship.
