“McGregor’s version of Alibaba!” – Tsarukyan didn’t stop attacking Topuria.

Arman Tsarukyan has never been one to mince words, but his latest jab at Ilia Topuria may have taken the feud between the two rising UFC stars to a whole new level. The Armenian-Russian lightweight contender recently posted a sharp and sarcastic comment on social media, comparing Topuria to a “cheap version of Conor McGregor,” or more specifically, “the Alibaba version of McGregor.” The comparison, intended to ridicule Topuria’s style, persona, and overall appearance, has ignited a flurry of reactions from fans and media alike.

As Tsarukyan continues to campaign for a title shot, his verbal assaults are becoming louder, funnier, and more personal. But is this just pre-fight banter? Or is Arman laying the groundwork for a future clash with Ilia Topuria, a fighter currently riding high on fame and momentum?

Let’s unpack this latest twist in the UFC’s most unexpected rivalry of 2025.

The Origins of the Tsarukyan-Topuria Tension

The friction between Arman Tsarukyan and Ilia Topuria didn’t come out of nowhere. The two fighters are among the most talented rising stars in the UFC, but they reside in different weight divisions—Tsarukyan in lightweight, Topuria in featherweight. Still, that hasn’t stopped the tension from brewing.

It all started when Tsarukyan was denied a lightweight title shot earlier this year, despite a string of dominant performances. Many believed he deserved the opportunity to face Islam Makhachev, but politics and promotion once again got in the way.

In the midst of his frustration, Tsarukyan began directing subtle jabs at others in the UFC spotlight, including Ilia Topuria, who was being hyped for a featherweight championship bout. As Topuria gained more attention, Tsarukyan’s comments became more pointed, suggesting that Topuria was getting “fast-tracked to fame” without truly earning it the hard way.

The Instagram Post That Sparked It All

The recent post on Tsarukyan’s Instagram escalated things significantly. In a bold meme-like image shared to his story, Tsarukyan juxtaposed photos of Ilia Topuria’s tattoos, walkouts, and postures with Conor McGregor’s iconic moments.

The caption read:

“Who wants to let him know he looks like the Alibaba version of McGregor? 😂🧼”

It was a brutal comparison—implying that Topuria was nothing more than a budget knockoff of the UFC’s most notorious superstar. The phrase “Alibaba version” is often used online to mock someone or something that appears to be a low-cost, less authentic imitation of a popular figure or brand. It’s internet slang with a sting.

Adding salt to the wound, Tsarukyan highlighted Topuria’s attempt at replicating McGregor’s swagger, suggesting that the Georgian-Spanish fighter lacked originality and was simply mimicking a path already walked.

Is There Merit to the Comparison?

While the post was clearly intended to provoke, it also opens up an interesting debate. Ilia Topuria has long been compared to Conor McGregor—not just for his brash confidence but for his stylish entrances, quick knockouts, and trash-talking abilities. He has charisma, a dangerous right hand, and a gift for drawing attention.

But unlike McGregor, who forged his legacy through a brutal path of defeating top contenders, Tsarukyan and others argue that Topuria hasn’t paid the same dues. Critics claim his rise was propelled by marketing more than merit, even though his record remains spotless.

Fans have also noted the tattoos and fashion sense similarities between Topuria and McGregor, often pointing out that Topuria appears to be borrowing from McGregor’s iconic brand.

Whether that’s fair or not, Tsarukyan clearly sees Topuria’s fame as unearned and possibly manufactured.

Topuria’s Silence — A Strategy or Arrogance?

So far, Ilia Topuria has not responded to Tsarukyan’s mockery. That silence could be strategic—choosing not to “feed the troll”—or it could stem from confidence that Tsarukyan isn’t currently on his radar.

Topuria has a lot on his plate, possibly including a defense of his featherweight title or a much-anticipated superfight. Engaging in social media warfare with a lightweight contender may not be a top priority.

However, ignoring Tsarukyan may only embolden him. As fans of the sport know, verbal jabs often precede real fights—and Tsarukyan appears to be positioning himself as a future opponent, either at 145 or a catchweight.

Tsarukyan’s Growing Persona as a Fighter-Villain

This isn’t the first time Arman Tsarukyan has made headlines for speaking his mind. In fact, he’s slowly building a reputation as a verbal assassin in the UFC, not unlike McGregor himself.

From his ongoing spats with Makhachev, to dismissive comments about Justin Gaethje, Tsarukyan is finding a voice beyond the Octagon. His confidence is palpable, and he’s beginning to understand the power of psychological warfare in today’s UFC landscape.

Critics may call it immature or petty, but in a sport where attention often equals opportunity, Tsarukyan is playing the game.

What’s Next? A Collision Course?

For now, a fight between Tsarukyan and Topuria isn’t officially on the books. But in a UFC world that thrives on drama, personal insults, and viral moments, don’t be surprised if Dana White starts floating the idea.

If Topuria were to move up in weight, or if Tsarukyan wanted to drop down for a blockbuster bout, the UFC could sell this as a “Clash of the Rising Stars.” The storyline practically writes itself:

Two young, confident fighters.
A personal feud that’s already catching fire.
A chance to silence the trash talk once and for all.

Final Thoughts: Trash Talk or Tactical Move?

Arman Tsarukyan’s shot at Ilia Topuria may seem like a childish meme on the surface, but in today’s UFC, it’s also a tactical maneuver. By calling Topuria out publicly—and making people laugh while doing it—Tsarukyan is forcing the MMA world to pay attention.

And in this sport, visibility is currency.

Whether or not the comparison to Conor McGregor is accurate, one thing’s clear: Tsarukyan has inserted himself into the spotlight once again. He’s not just chasing belts—he’s chasing headlines, storylines, and respect.

And if Ilia Topuria ever decides to fire back, we could be looking at one of the UFC’s most explosive rivalries yet.