Arman Tsarukyan targets Topuria, wants five title defenses at lightweight

Arman Tsarukyan has expressed interest in fighting featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, stating he would like to step in if Justin Gaethje withdraws and that his goal is to "kick Topuria out of the UFC." The lightweight contender also outlined his long-term ambitions, saying he won't stop until he has at least five successful title defenses at 155 pounds. Meanwhile, Merab Dvalishvili clarified he has no issues with Dagestani fighters except Umar Nurmagomedov, whom he specifically dislikes, while emphasizing healthy competition among fighters from Armenia, Georgia, Chechnya, and Dagestan. Topuria responded by calling Tsarukyan "incredibly stupid" and making derogatory comments. The summary also mentions Benoit Saint-Denis announcing a fight with Paddy Pimblett and Bogdan Guskov declining a bout.