Overview

• Topuria captured the vacant lightweight crown at UFC 317 by knocking out Charles Oliveira after vacating his featherweight title in February.
• Arman Tsarukyan has called for a title eliminator against Justin Gaethje, arguing Gaethje must earn another shot following his knockout loss to Max Holloway.
• Paddy Pimblett’s unsanctioned face-off with Topuria inside the Octagon at UFC 317 propelled him to frontrunner status despite UFC CEO Dana White’s objections.
• The champion has warned he would vacate the belt rather than accept a fight with Tsarukyan, maintaining he will defend only against Gaethje or Pimblett.
• UFC matchmakers have not yet confirmed the next lightweight title bout, leaving contenders in limbo as negotiations continue.