Sports · Combat Sports · 13 hrs ago
Topuria says Tsarukyan would struggle if his takedowns failed
Ilia Topuria says Arman Tsarukyan could struggle on the feet if his takedowns failed in a potential UFC lightweight fight.
Topuria made the comments while discussing a possible matchup with Tsarukyan, a fellow UFC fighter.
He compared the scenario to Movsar Evloev’s fight with Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 333, saying wrestlers may lose confidence when they cannot dominate.
Topuria said Tsarukyan is known for takedowns and dominant positions, rather than for a broader ground game.
Topuria also cited his own grappling and wrestling background as a reason he feels confident.
Topuria lost the lightweight title to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 and is planning his return.
The UFC is targeting an early 2027 return for him, but no opponent has been announced.
Ilia Topuria says Arman Tsarukyan would struggle on the feet if he could not use takedowns to control a potential fight.
Topuria compared Tsarukyan’s situation to Movsar Evloev’s against Alexander Volkanovski.
He said Tsarukyan is known for takedowns and dominant positions, rather than his broader ground game.
Topuria cited his own grappling and wrestling background as a reason for his confidence.
UFC CEO Dana White said the promotion is targeting Topuria’s return for early 2027, but no opponent has been announced.
- Who
- Ilia Topuria discussed Arman Tsarukyan.
- What
- Topuria said Tsarukyan would struggle on the feet if his takedowns failed to control a potential fight.
- When
- Topuria’s comments were reported on November 9, 2026.
- Where
- Topuria spoke to Spanish outlet ABC.
- Why
- He was discussing a potential UFC lightweight matchup with Tsarukyan.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Topuria lost the title to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250.
A social media post shared Topuria’s comments about Tsarukyan.
Sherdog reported Topuria’s comments and said UFC was targeting his return for early 2027.
- Potential opponent
- Arman Tsarukyan
- Former champion
- Ilia Topuria, former two-division UFC champion
- Title loss
- Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250
- Targeted return
- Early 2027
- Interview outlet
- ABC, a Spanish outlet
What people are saying
Arman would be pure panic on the feet trying to take you down
Arman does not stand out for his ground game
He stands out for takedowns and the dominant positions he looks for.
I grew up grappling and wrestling. I have more wrestling photos than photos playing in the park. It's my life