Lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan stated he would like to see Justin Gaethje lose so he can fight Ilia Topuria and 'kick him out of the UFC,' calling that his ultimate goal. Tsarukyan also declared he won't stop until he achieves at least five UFC title defenses, showing long-term championship ambitions. Bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili clarified he has no problems with Dagestani fighters except Umar Nurmagomedov, stating he simply dislikes that particular fighter while maintaining respect for athletes from Armenia, Georgia, Chechnya and Dagestan as hardworking competitors. Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, who recently updated his chest tattoo, launched harsh criticism at Tsarukyan, calling him extremely stupid and claiming he would break his jaw in the first round if they fought. Tsarukyan also discussed a potential bout with Alexander Volkanovski and outlined possible career paths for Khamzat Chimaev. Demetrious Johnson predicted a confident victory for Chimaev over Sean Strickland, while Benoit Saint-Denis appeared to announce a fight with Paddy Pimblett by posting roast beef (an English dish) on social media. Featherweight Bogdan Guskov reportedly declined a fight with an opponent named Baraniewsky.
