On June 14, in the main event of the much discussed UFC White House card, Ilia Topuria will attempt to defend the lightweight title against Justin Gaethje. At least, that’s the plan. While everybody is hoping that the Topuria vs. Gaethje fight goes ahead, injuries happen in MMA. There is a small chance one of the two could be ruled out of the fight before they make it to the Octagon. If that’s what happens, top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan will be ready to step in as a replacement. News of Tsarukyan’s backup role was announced by UFC CEO Dana White this week.
The news was well-received by fight fans, as Topuria vs. Tsarukyan is arguably a much better fight than Topuria vs. Gaethje. That’s partly because of their immense skill, but also because of the fierce rivalry between them. They really don’t seem to like each other.
Speaking to the media ahead of this Saturday’s UFC 328 card in Newark, Topuria reacted to news that his nemesis will be the backup opponent for his next fight.
Here’s what he had to say:
Topuria reacts to backup opponent for UFC White House fight
Ilia on Arman being announced as the backup:
“He’s always the backup” pic.twitter.com/q1oG8kKgvR
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) May 8, 2026
“He’s always a backup,” Topuria said. Talk about a man of few words.
Topuria claimed the vacant UFC lightweight belt last year, when he knocked out Charles Oliveira in round one. Prior to that, he knocked out Max Holloway to defend the UFC featherweight title. He won the featherweight belt with a knockout of Alexander Volkanovski. His last three wins combined amount to one of the best streaks in MMA history.
Tsarukyan last fought in the fall, when he submitted Dan Hooker. Prior to that, he was riding a decision win over Oliveira. He has long been considered a top lightweight contender, but spent some time on the UFC’s naughty list for his many troubles outside the cage. Those days seem to be over.