Arman Tsarukyan Warns Ilia Topuria – ‘I Can Beat Him So Easy’
Arman Tsarukyan is confident he would beat UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria, as we look at how the fight could play out.
Tsarukyan solidified his position as the leading contender in the lightweight division, as he secured an arm-triangle choke in the second round to beat Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar. This victory marked his fifth consecutive win inside the Octagon. Tsarukyan then called out Ilia, who secured the vacant lightweight title by stopping Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in June. Topuria has yet to be tested by a wrestler, which makes it an intriguing fight.
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“I didn’t want to mention Ilia [too much] because I was focused on my fight. After today, I’m going to try to again create some crazy videos that are going to be viral and try to make a joke and to bring a lot of eyes for that fight. Because it’s a media sport, too. You’ve got to be a good fighter and a good showman. “In my mind, I can strike with him in the long distance but when he wants to try to box me and throw his hard punch, I’m going to shoot and take him down. I believe in myself and I know I can beat him so easy as well,” Arman said
The Approach
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Tsarukyan’s strategy will center on Topuria’s lack of proven defensive wrestling against an elite lightweight. Tsarukyan will constantly mix in level changes, feints, and chain-wrestling attempts. This keeps Topuria guessing and limits his ability to sit down and load up on his powerful, counter-striking shots. Tsarukyan is known for his relentless pace, which he believes Topuria has yet to truly face. Topuria’s gas tank, especially if the champion is unable to secure a quick knockout, could come into question.
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Topuria’s game plan will be built on maintaining his takedown defense rate. Every successful defensive move will be followed by a powerful counter-strike to punish Tsarukyan for the attempt. Topuria prefers to fight in the pocket or at mid-range, where he can unleash his powerful hooks and cross. He will look to time the wrestler’s entry with hard lead hooks or intercepting knees.
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