Arman Tsarukyan has stated he would like Justin Gaethje to pull out so he could fight Ilia Topuria and "kick him out of the UFC," calling it his goal. Tsarukyan also declared he won't stop until he has at least five UFC title defenses. Merab Dvalishvili clarified he has no problems with Dagestani fighters except Umar Nurmagomedov, whom he dislikes, while emphasizing healthy competition among fighters from Armenia, Georgia, Chechnya and Dagestan. Topuria responded by calling Tsarukyan "incredibly stupid" and a "complete cringe," saying he would break Tsarukyan's jaw in the first round if they fight. Benoit Saint-Denis posted a roast beef image (an English dish) apparently announcing a fight with Paddy Pimblett.
