02-06-2025
Arman Tsarukyan Ready to Back Up Ilia Topuria vs Charles Oliveira at UFC 317
Arman Tsarukyan Ready to Back Up Ilia Topuria vs Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
With UFC 317 just weeks away, anticipation is hitting a boiling point. Headlined by the lightweight showdown between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira, the event is set to cap off what's already shaping up to be one of the UFC's hottest months in recent memory. Fans have been counting down the days, and as the spotlight turns toward the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, the stakes couldn't be higher. Behind the scenes, however, one top contender is making it clear: he's ready if called.
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That contender is Arman Tsarukyan, who recently told Red Corner MMA that he's open to serving as a backup for UFC 317. Tsarukyan also mentioned he'd be willing to serve as a backup for Dustin Poirier's farewell fight against Max Holloway, showing his eagerness to stay close to any high-profile opportunity. When asked directly, he responded:
'Offer me and I will definitely back it up. Yes, I will be ready. I'm flying back to the US and will be staying there.'
He continued:
'I need to take chances now. I got injured, and the injury was misinterpreted. Now I just need to get back on track, so I'm going to do whatever the UFC tells me to do.'
The comments came shortly after Tsarukyan's grappling match victory over Patricky Pitbull on May 31 at Voleybol'naya Arena in Moscow, where he secured a fifth-round rear-naked choke submission. The performance reaffirmed his readiness and determination to stay active, even outside the octagon.
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Tsarukyan's recent stretch was briefly derailed due to a back injury that forced him to withdraw from a scheduled title fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311. The withdrawal sparked speculation and criticism, with some questioning the legitimacy of the issue. The situation created confusion around his status, but the 28-year-old appears to have recovered and is determined to stay on track.
UFC CEO Dana WhitePhoto by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
As UFC 317 approaches, the possibility of last-minute changes remains. Whether the main event goes off without a hitch or fate intervenes, Tsarukyan has made one thing clear: he won't be waiting on the sidelines. Time will tell if his readiness turns into reality. As of now, there has been no official confirmation that UFC President Dana White has reached out to Tsarukyan, but with the fighter staying ready and vocal, the opportunity could come at any moment.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
