Arman Tsarukyan on Ilia Topuria's Championship Achievement: He Seeks Easy Fights

Arman Tsarukyan, who tops the UFC light heavyweight rankings, has once again commented on the current champion of the division, Ilia Topuria, while drawing a parallel between him and the welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.

"Indeed, Ilia became champion, but I would prefer if Islam remained in our division, as he doesn’t shy away from competition. Ilia is looking for easy fights, such as with WWE fighter Pimblett. That’s why I would like to see Islam as our champion. We need a real champion who fights against genuine contenders," Tsarukyan's words were conveyed by the UFC press service.

Islam Makhachev last fought in November 2025 at UFC 322, where he won unanimously against Jack Della Maddalena. The Russian fighter boasts a record of 28 wins and 1 loss.

Ilia Topuria's last appearance in the octagon was in June 2025 at UFC 317, where he knocked out Charles Oliveira in the first round. He holds an unbeaten record of 17 wins.

Arman Tsarukyan faced Dan Hooker at UFC Fight Night 265 in Doha on November 22, defeating him with a submission hold in the second round. The Armenian fighter has a record of 23 wins and 3 losses.