Arman Tsarukyan has stated he does not believe Justin Gaethje will pull out of his upcoming bout against Ilia Topuria. Tsarukyan suggested that Gaethje knows these are among his final fights and is focused on earning substantial paydays before retiring. According to Tsarukyan, even if Gaethje loses the fight, he will still collect a significant purse. The comments reflect Tsarukyan's belief that Gaethje's motivation remains strong despite potential knowledge of his career winding down.
Arman Tsarukyan has publicly dismissed the idea that Justin Gaethje will withdraw from his scheduled lightweight title fight against Ilia Topuria, making clear he believes Gaethje has every reason to see the bout through to fight night.
Tsarukyan, the number-one ranked lightweight contender, weighed in with a candid assessment of Gaethje's motivation. The 29-year-old Russian, fighting out of American Top Team with a record of 23-3, suggested that Gaethje understands his career is winding down and is focused on securing significant paydays in his remaining fights. In Tsarukyan's view, even a loss would not diminish Gaethje's financial reward, giving the champion little reason to step aside.
Gaethje, the reigning lightweight champion, carries a record of 28-5 at 37 years old. The Arizona-based fighter is one of the most prolific strikers in the division, landing 6.48 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate. Standing five-foot-eleven with a 70-inch reach, "The Highlight" brings considerable experience and power into any fight at this level.
Topuria enters the matchup as the number-two ranked lightweight and the current pound-for-pound number-one fighter in the world, per the AgentMMA rankings. The 29-year-old Spaniard holds a 17-1 record and trains out of Climent Club. Despite a smaller frame at five-foot-seven and a 69-inch reach, Topuria averages 4.81 significant strikes per minute and adds a takedown threat of nearly two attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Gaethje's lightweight title is directly on the line, making any withdrawal a major divisional shakeup
- Tsarukyan sits as the top-ranked contender and would be the most prominent alternative opponent for Topuria
- The stylistic contrast between Gaethje's high-volume striking and Topuria's well-rounded attack sets up a compelling championship matchup
