Multiple UFC fighters have made notable statements in recent interviews. Arman Tsarukyan stated he wants Justin Gaethje to withdraw so he can fight Ilia Topuria and "throw him out of the UFC," adding he won't stop until he has at least five title defenses. Merab Dvalishvili clarified he has no problems with Dagestani fighters except Umar Nurmagomedov, emphasizing healthy competition among fighters from Armenia, Georgia, Chechnya, and Dagestan. Ilia Topuria, who recently updated his chest tattoo, launched harsh criticism at Tsarukyan, calling him "incredibly stupid" and claiming he would "break his jaw in the first round" if they fought. Additional news includes Tsarukyan discussing a potential Volkanovski fight, predictions about Chimaev versus O'Malley, Benoit Saint-Denis apparently calling out Paddy Pimblett via social media, and Bogdan Guskov declining a fight with Baraniewski.
