UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria has responded with amusement to the news that top contender Arman Tsarukyan has been designated as the backup fighter for the impending lightweight title unification bout between Topuria and Justin Gaethje. The fight is scheduled for June 14.
UFC President Dana White confirmed Tsarukyan’s backup status earlier this week in an interview. Topuria, who has historically shown little regard for Tsarukyan, took to social media to playfully mock the situation, stating:
“He’s always a backup.”
In a separate interview, Topuria elaborated on his stance, expressing indifference regarding his opponent for June 14. He conveyed strong confidence in his ability to secure victory regardless of who steps into the octagon against him, stating:
“I absolutely don’t care about it. I’m going to be in that octagon no matter what happens… the result is the same with everyone.”
Meanwhile, Justin Gaethje has issued a stern warning to Ilia Topuria. Gaethje, the interim UFC lightweight champion, vowed to bring his A-game and aim for a knockout on June 14, promising to unleash his signature powerful strikes.
“I am so ready to put it on the line, I don’t give a f*ck if I lose or win. I am coming in there, and I am gonna knock this motherf**er out. I will be throwing missiles on the White House lawn on June 14. I promise you that.”