Ilia Topuria Pris

Tensions are beginning to build between Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan.

This Saturday, Topuria will face Charles Oliveira for a free lightweight title in the main event of UFC 317, with Tsarukyan serving as the official backup fighter for the match. But speaking to New York Post Sports on Tuesday, Topuria suggested that this was a mistake for the Zarkian.

“That’s a bad decision for him,” Topria said of the emperor being a backup fighter for UFC 317. I’m not my first fight.

Tsaruykan is currently riding a lightweight, four-time winning streak, including a split decision victory over Oliveira at the UFC 300. As a result, UFC CEO Dana White states that Tsarukyan needs to win a title shot, and Topuria agrees.

“I won’t give him a chance right away,” Topria said. “He needs to win another fight. He had the opportunity to fight for the title, he had no reason for any reason, but he pulled out so he needs to win his shot again, I don’t know. Someone.

Naturally, the emperor disagrees. In response to Topuria’s comments, he issued his own warning to fellow Georgia-born fighters.

“I hope nothing happens to Charles, because I’m the worst match for you in this division. There’s a reason you’re fighting the guy I’ve already beaten, not me, but for that belt.”

UFC 317 will be held this Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.