An all-time MMA great believes Arman Tsarukyan has the best chance to dethrone UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.

However, Topuria has no interest in locking horns with Tsarukyan and has previously stated that he would rather vacate than fight the Armenian-Russian fighter.

Tsarukyan, who is currently the No. 2-ranked 155-pound contender, last fought Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar and won by submission in the second round. The 29-year-old wanted to fight for the title early this year, but was denied for multiple reasons.

However, ‘Ahalkalakets’ has kept himself busy by wrestling, grappling, and collecting major accolades.

Other than that, he has also appeared on major interviews, shows, podcasts, and streams.

Most recently, as a part of his PR run, he linked up with all-time MMA great Demetrious Johnson.

‘Might Mouse’ is confident Arman Tsarukyan has the “best chance” to dethrone Ilia Topuria

Demetrious Johnson, after training with Arman Tsarukyan, believes the latter has the best chance in the lightweight division to dethrone champion Ilia Topuria. The 39-year-old said:

“After training with him [Arman Tsarukyan], if he fights Ilia Topuria, I think he has the athletic ability, the skill set, and the mindset to beat Ilia Topuria.”

Might Mouse’ added that ‘Ahalkalakets’ should have fought either Justin Gaethje or Paddy Pimblett. However, now that ‘The Highlight’ is the interim UFC lightweight champion, he will take on Topuria next. Therefore, Tsarukyan has to wait. Thus, Johnson suggested:

“Arman should be fighting the winner of Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria. I think Arman Tsarukyan has the best chance in the lightweight division to beat Ilia Topuria.”

Check out Demetrious Johnson’s comments below:

Demetrious Johnson, after training with Arman, believes he has the best chance in the lightweight division to beat Ilia Topuria 🤼‍♂️👊

“After training with him, if he fights Ilia Topuria, I think he has the athletic ability, the skill set, and the mindset to beat Ilia Topuria.… pic.twitter.com/xd5nUabrPZ

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 11, 2026

Tsarukyan, on the other hand, is tired of waiting for a title shot at 155-pounds. He has hence teased a move down to featherweight, if his next fight is not against Justin Gaethje or Ilia Topuria.