Ilia Topuria signals readiness to step in against Arman Tsarukyan at the upcoming White House UFC event on June 14, marking a shift from his previous reluctance for the lightweight clash.
Tsarukyan Prepares for Potential Topuria Showdown
Arman Tsarukyan eyes a matchup with Topuria, especially with Paddy Pimblett sidelined from immediate title contention. Tsarukyan trains as if the fight could materialize and has hinted at Justin Gaethje possibly withdrawing due to injury, urging him to step aside.
However, Gaethje’s potential absence does not guarantee Topuria faces Tsarukyan instead.
Topuria’s ‘Whoever, Whenever’ Mindset
Topuria addressed the scenario during a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show. “If they call me tomorrow and they tell me Justin is injured and I have to fight Arman, I will fight Arman, no problem,” Topuria said. “If they call me and they tell me that Arman is injured and I have to fight Ariel, I’m gonna fight Ariel, no problem. I go whoever, whenever, I’m ready.”
Persistent Dismissal of Tsarukyan
Despite the openness, Topuria maintains Tsarukyan poses little threat. “He’s a kid. His mentality, he’s dumb as f—. Everything that I saw about him on the internet, it’s embarrassing. F— Arman, who cares about him… He’s not on my level. If we cross paths, I’m gonna break his jaw in the first round,” Topuria stated.
