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UFC star Arman Tsarukyan has given his thoughts on the current state of the lightweight division, including Ilia Topuria’s future.
There’s no denying that Arman Tsarukyan is one of the best lightweights on the planet right now, and while he may not be getting a title shot next, he will get the chance to prove himself at UFC 331 when he collides with Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event.
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If he wins, Tsarukyan will almost certainly be thrust into a championship fight. Many expected that he would be facing off against Ilia Topuria, but that isn’t likely after he lost the belt to the incredible Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250.
In a recent interview, Tsarukyan had the following to say about Topuria, his own future, and the rest of the division.
Tsarukyan looks at the lightweight division
Arman starting off by naming a potential next opponent for Ilia Topuria following his loss to Justin Gaethje.
“He’s still recovering and probably next for him a fight with Michael Chandler and then come back and fight for the title,” Tsarukyan said, adding, “Who else? After this fight, he needs someone easy, an easy fight, and then after that fight come and fight again.”
“Already No. 1 contender,” Tsarukyan said when asked if the stakes are high for him on Sept. 19.
“There’s a lot of top guys,” Tsarukyan said. “Me, Oliveira still. Paddy Pimblett. Topuria. Max Holloway is tough as well. But when I beat Ruffy, I’m going to fight for the title and then I can pick who I want to fight.”
Quotes via MMA Fighting
Do you believe Arman will be the next man to challenge Justin Gaethje for the UFC lightweight championship? Let us know your thoughts on this in the comments below, BJPENN Nation!
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