Topuria blasts Tsarukyan ahead of title defense

UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria criticized rising contender Arman Tsarukyan in recent comments to Yahoo Sports, dismissing his recent dominant win at RAF 08 as overhyped ahead of Topuria's title defense at Freedom 250. Tsarukyan's viral performance against Urijah Faber has positioned him as a lightweight threat, but Topuria views him unfavorably. This exchange adds intrigue to the lightweight division, where Topuria holds the belt and faces Justin Gaethje at UFC White House event. The feud matters as it could foreshadow future challengers post-Topuria's defense. Expect more verbal sparring as Tsarukyan pushes for UFC return.