Arman Tsarukyan says he expects his next UFC fight to be announced after the Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje title unification bout at UFC Freedom 250, with the timing depending on who wins.
Tsarukyan spoke to MMA Junkie backstage at RAF 9 in Arlington, Texas on Saturday, where he made quick work of Keelon Jimison in his fifth consecutive RAF appearance.
“I’m waiting for the White House card when they are going to fight and then they are going to announce my next fight, probably September, October, or end of this year. It depends who is going to win. If it’s Ilia, probably the end of this year. If it’s Gaethje, probably September-October.”
Tsarukyan said he wants Topuria to win and explained his reasoning for preferring that matchup.
“Ilia Topuria. I want to fight Ilia Topuria. I think Ilia Topuria wins. But I think Justin is an OG and you never know. 60-40.”
He also addressed speculation that Topuria could jump to welterweight for a third belt instead.
“If UFC lets him move up, he’s going to move up. It’s better to fight with Islam than me, because it’s a third title, big money, and if he loses to Islam, it’s OK. He moves up two weight classes and moves to pound-for-pound best. But if he loses to me at 155, he’s going to be gone.”
Tsarukyan serves as the backup fighter for the UFC Freedom 250 lightweight title fight on June 14 at the White House.