With a skill set considered among the best in the sport, Arman Tsarukyan is being tipped to dethrone Ilia Topuria by a widely respected GOAT of the sport.
Tsarukyan has yet to fight for a UFC title, but many still consider him one of the top fighters in the 155lb division.
After pulling out of his scheduled title shot against Islam Makhachev last January, ‘Ahalkalakets’ has found himself out of favour with the promotion, and he is still dealing with the effects of that decision.
Despite not being next in line for a title shot against the reigning lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria, the fighter is receiving major support. Demetrious Johnson, one of the greatest fighters of all time, has backed him as the only person capable of dethroning ‘El Matador’.
Demetrious Johnson feels Arman Tsarukyan’s physical tools are too much for Ilia Topuria
Topuria is expected to return to action in June at the UFC White House event, where he is set to face interim champion Justin Gaethje.
Despite his status, few are giving ‘The Highlight’ much of a chance against the Spaniard.
On the other hand, ‘Mighty Mouse’ offered an explanation for why he believes Tsarukyan will overcome Topuria, citing a recent training session with the 29-year-old as the basis for his prediction.
“After training with him, if he fights Ilia Topuria, I think he has the athletic ability, the skill set as a mixed martial artist and the mindset to be able to beat Ilia Topuria,” Johnson stated in his latest YouTube video.
“Does he deserve a title shot over Justin Gaethje? To be honest with you, Arman Tsarukyan should be fighting, should have fought either Justin Gaethje or Paddy Pimblett for the interim championship.
“Arman should be fighting the winner of Justin Gaethje vs Ilia Topuria… I think Arman Tsarukyan has the best chance in the lightweight division of beating Ilia Topuria.”
Alongside his physical tools and all-around game, Tsarukyan would also have a clear size advantage over ‘El Matador’, being the naturally bigger lightweight.
The 29-year-old has had some issues making 155lbs in the past. Still, Tsarukyan recently said that moving down to featherweight is something he would consider if it meant getting a chance to fight Alexander Volkanovski for both titles.
Arman Tsarukyan staying active with non-UFC fights
Tsarukyan has not been in the UFC’s good books lately, so he has been staying busy by taking fights elsewhere.
Since his win over Dan Hooker in November, he has had three more outings across different combat sports, including wrestling and grappling matches.
He will be back on the mats again on February 28th, this time facing Georgio Poullas at RAF 6.
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