Several UFC fighters have engaged in a war of words on social media. Arman Tsarukyan stated he wants Justin Gaethje to pull out so he can fight Ilia Topuria and "kick him out of the UFC," adding he won't stop until he has at least five title defenses. Merab Dvalishvili said he has no problems with Dagestani fighters except Umar Nurmagomedov, whom he dislikes, and emphasized healthy competition between Armenia, Georgia, Chechnya, and Dagestan. Topuria, who updated his chest tattoo, responded harshly to Tsarukyan, calling him "incredibly stupid" and claiming he would break his jaw in the first round, also suggesting Tsarukyan spends his father's money rather than his own. The post also mentions Tsarukyan discussing a potential Volkanovski fight, predictions about Khamzat Chimaev, and Benoit Saint-Denis posting roast beef (an English dish) to announce a fight with Paddy Pimblett.
