Multiple fighters have made notable statements in recent social media activity. Ilia Topuria, who recently updated his chest tattoo, launched a harsh verbal attack on Arman Tsarukyan, calling him "incredibly stupid" and "a complete idiot," predicting he would break his jaw in the first round if they fought. Tsarukyan responded by saying he wants Justin Gaethje to pull out so he can fight and "kick Topuria out of the UFC," adding he won't stop until he has at least five UFC title defenses. Merab Dvalishvili stated he has no problems with Dagestani fighters except Umar Nurmagomedov, emphasizing healthy competition between Armenia, Georgia, Chechnya, and Dagestan. Additional updates include Benoit Saint-Denis apparently announcing a fight with Paddy Pimblett, Demetrious Johnson predicting Khamzat Chimaev would defeat Sean O'Malley, and Bogdan Guskov declining a fight with Baranievski.
