Tsarukyan Calls Out Topuria, Urges Dana White to Intervene

Arman Tsarukyan is done staying quiet. The lightweight standout believes he’s earned his spot as the number one contender and is now turning up the heat on Ilia Topuria, who he accuses of dodging him rather than defending his UFC title like a true champion.

After a relentless rise through the UFC rankings, Tsarukyan has built a case few can deny. But despite his resume, he still hasn’t secured a title fight. Instead, attention continues to focus on other names like Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, and Max Holloway. For Tsarukyan, the snub is personal—and Topuria is right in the center of it.

Recently, Topuria made headlines when he declared he would “rather vacate the title” than defend it against Tsarukyan. That triggered a strong response from the Armenian fighter, who took to social media to call out the featherweight champion.

Tsarukyan referenced Islam Makhachev’s quote at the UFC Performance Institute that says fighters should be ready to compete “anytime, anywhere.” Then he took a brutal jab at Topuria, posting: “Hey Dana, maybe now’s a good time to put a quote in the bathroom for Ilia reminding him not to sit down while pissing – thanks boss.”

This wasn’t just about clever trash talk. Tsarukyan sees Topuria’s comments as a sign of fear—fear of facing a legitimate threat. For him, this is about legacy, honor, and the meaning of being a real UFC champion.

Tsarukyan Calls on Dana White to Step In

As the situation escalates, Tsarukyan wants more than internet buzz. He’s calling on UFC President Dana White to take action. He believes Topuria is disrespecting what it means to be a champion, and the UFC should step in to enforce the company’s own standards.

According to Tsarukyan, this is bigger than personal rivalry. It’s about restoring the values that built the UFC—where champions defend against the toughest challenges, not just the most profitable ones.

He said clearly: “Champions are supposed to fight the number one contender. Not run from them.”

And for those who think Topuria’s act is entertaining, Tsarukyan has one message: he’s not impressed.

“He’s Just Copying Conor”: Tsarukyan Rips Topuria’s Persona

Another issue Tsarukyan has with Topuria is the way he carries himself. From over-the-top entrances to cocky interviews, Tsarukyan says Topuria is trying too hard to be Conor McGregor—but without the same courage to back it up.

“Everyone sees it,” Tsarukyan said. “He’s trying to be the next McGregor. But Conor fought real killers. This guy is just acting like him while avoiding the real threats.”

He also mocked Topuria’s self-proclaimed “BMF” (Baddest Motherfer) persona, saying it’s embarrassing to the other champions who actually defend their belts. Tsarukyan ended one of his rants with a sharp shot: *“How do you say ‘puy’ in Spanish?” making it crystal clear how he views Topuria’s attitude.

Frustration Boiling Over

For Tsarukyan, this situation goes beyond Topuria. He feels the UFC’s promotional system is unfair, often rewarding fighters who talk louder rather than those who perform better.

Names like Gaethje, Pimblett, and Holloway dominate headlines, while Tsarukyan—despite high-level wins over the likes of Beneil Dariush and Mateusz Gamrot—is left on the sidelines.

His performances have been nothing short of dominant, yet he hasn’t been granted the opportunity to fight for gold. That disconnect between merit and opportunity is what’s really driving Tsarukyan’s outrage.

Dana White’s Response: “He Still Has to Earn It”

Despite Tsarukyan’s momentum, Dana White isn’t ready to hand him the title shot just yet. In fact, White reminded the public that Tsarukyan pulled out of UFC 311, a decision that may have damaged his standing in the title picture.

“Look, Arman’s great,” White said recently. “But let’s not forget—he pulled out of UFC 311. You don’t just get handed a title shot. You earn it.”

That statement might be a hard pill to swallow for Tsarukyan, but it’s one he seems determined to fight through. He’s made it clear he’s ready to face anyone, and if he has to take on another top contender to prove himself again, he’s willing.

The Silence from Topuria Speaks Volumes

So far, Ilia Topuria hasn’t directly responded to Tsarukyan’s barbs. The silence is telling. Whether it’s a tactical move or genuine disinterest, it’s only making Tsarukyan’s claims seem more credible.

Fans and analysts are taking notice too. More voices within the MMA community are calling for Topuria to step up and defend his title against the fighter who’s earned the shot more than anyone else.

If Topuria continues to ignore Tsarukyan, it could start to hurt his reputation as a serious champion. And if he vacates the belt instead of defending it, that reputation could be damaged permanently.

What Happens Next?

At this point, the UFC has a few options. They could give Tsarukyan a true number-one contender bout—possibly against Charles Oliveira or Dustin Poirier. Or they could acknowledge his position and book him directly against Topuria, letting the two settle the argument inside the Octagon.

A fight between Tsarukyan and Topuria would be a huge draw. It’s a classic clash of styles, personalities, and motivations. One is a grounded warrior with elite wrestling and cardio. The other is a charismatic showman with knockout power and star appeal.

It’s a perfect mix for a pay-per-view headliner.

Final Thoughts

Arman Tsarukyan has reached his boiling point. He’s done waiting quietly while others get chances he believes he’s earned. His callout of Ilia Topuria is more than personal—it’s about restoring what it means to be a UFC champion.

Whether Dana White listens remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Tsarukyan won’t stop pushing until he gets the shot he deserves. And if Topuria continues to dodge, the pressure—and the questions—will only keep growing.