Legendary American mixed martial arts fighter and former two-division UFC champion Daniel Cormier is confident that a clash between Featherweight titleholder Ilia Topuria and top Lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan is simply unavoidable.
“Arman does everything necessary to maintain peak shape. This guy is possibly the best lightweight in the world once Islam [Makhachev] is no longer champion. He is truly excellent. He is big, strong, and physically developed,” Cormier stated.
Cormier highly praised both athletes, positioning them above other top competitors in their divisions.
“Topuria is amazing. I believe Ilia and Arman are two of the best guys in the world right now. I think sooner or later they will simply have to fight. While athletes like Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje are amazing, Arman and Ilia seem to possess something uniquely special. This isn`t just about their skill level, but also the dynamic and narrative between them that allows you to build a great fight. So yes, I think Arman is fantastic; he is incredibly talented.”
It should be noted that Topuria recently postponed his next title defense indefinitely due to domestic violence allegations brought forward by his ex-wife.
