Overview

• Khabib Nurmagomedov told interviewer Kamil Gadzhiyev he considers Arman Tsarukyan the UFC’s best lightweight and favors him 80–20 over champion Ilia Topuria.
• He argued Topuria has largely faced strikers and has not dealt with an elite wrestler like Tsarukyan, pointing to grappling, ground elbows, distance management and physical advantages.
• Despite Tsarukyan’s No. 1 ranking, UFC decision-makers are described as cautious after his late withdrawal from a planned title bout at UFC 311, with Dana White reportedly wanting him to fight back into contention.
• Other options remain in play for Topuria’s first defense, with Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett discussed as potential challengers based on profile and availability.
• Topuria moved up from featherweight and won the vacant lightweight belt by knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, while Tsarukyan is targeting an October or November return and neither fighter is currently booked.