Overview

• Arman Tsarukyan says he is fully healthy, training twice a day and ready to challenge Ilia Topuria in late 2025 or have the champion vacate the lightweight belt.
• Tsarukyan’s demands build on Topuria’s earlier statement that he would rather relinquish the title than face him, and analyst Chael Sonnen has speculated that the fight could take place in January.
• Paddy Pimblett has used social media posts and interviews to assert his case for a title shot, taunting both the champion and higher-ranked contenders despite his No. 9 ranking.
• Justin Gaethje has warned he may retire if he does not receive Topuria’s next lightweight title defense, adding another high-profile voice to the matchmaking debate.
• The UFC has yet to officially name Topuria’s next opponent, leaving the lightweight championship picture unresolved as contenders intensify public calls.