Arman Tsarukyan declined to weigh in as a replacement for the Gaethje-Topuria fight. Tsarukyan stated he will focus on his upcoming RAF appearance.
Arman Tsarukyan has turned down an opportunity to serve as a backup fighter for the upcoming lightweight title bout between Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria, with the Russian contender indicating he intends to stay focused on a separate appearance at a Road to Abu Dhabi Fighting Championship event.
Tsarukyan, ranked first in the lightweight division at 29 years old, carries a 23-3 record and represents one of the most complete threats at 155 pounds. Fighting out of American Top Team, the Russia-born standout averages 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes — among the highest rates in the division — and posts a 50 percent striking accuracy. At five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, he holds a notable reach advantage over many lightweight competitors.
The fight he declined to back up features two of the sport's most dangerous strikers. Justin Gaethje, the reigning lightweight champion, is 28-5 at 37 years old and fights out of Genesis Training Center. The Arizona native lands 6.48 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate, making him one of the most prolific pressuring strikers in the sport. Challenging him is Ilia Topuria, the pound-for-pound number one ranked fighter, who holds a 17-1 record and sits second in the lightweight rankings at 29 years old. Fighting out of Spain's Climent Club, "El Matador" lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute and also mixes in nearly two takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan's refusal leaves the Gaethje-Topuria card without its top-ranked lightweight insurance option
- As the number one contender, Tsarukyan remains the most likely next challenger at 155 pounds regardless of who emerges victorious
- His decision to prioritize his own scheduled appearance signals he is maintaining competitive rhythm rather than waiting on standby
