There’s one style that Charles Oliveira feels Arman Tsarukyan has that could potentially give Ilia Topuria a big blow in the UFC Octagon.
The former UFC lightweight champion recently gave his thoughts on a potential blockbuster showdown between Topuria and Tsarukyan, saying that the Armenian champ’s relentless wrestling could make the bout completely different.
Topuria’s explosive boxing with precision and devastating knockout power has earned him a fearsome reputation. But Oliveira cautioned that it “might not be a good idea” to stand around and start trading punches with him.
Oliveira said that the main thing that Tsarukyan has going for him would be his capacity to force the fight out on the canvas. Known for his powerful takedowns, physical pressure, and top control, the No. 1 lightweight contender is a badass for anyone who plays forward.
Oliveira has a very good knowledge of both fighters. After losing to Tsarukyan at UFC 300 in April 2024 in a split decision, he then faced Topuria at UFC 317. Oliveira said he was “too trusting” in his striking when he played against Topuria, and he felt the repercussions when he decided to go for punches instead of grappling.
The Brazilian star has felt that Tsarukyan is not as likely to repeat the error.
Instead of fighting it out in a dangerous stand-up confrontation, Tsarukyan could repeatedly attack Topuria’s legs and take him down to force the former champion to fight from his back. He theorized that this would be a totally different game and maybe show an area in which Topuria is not so comfortable.
Outside of the UFC, Tsarukyan has also been active in other major octagon events with participation in a few grappling and modified wrestling bouts, while awaiting his next big opportunity. If it’s a battle that includes a lot of wrestling, that experience may increase his odds even more.
Topuria still had the capability to be a significant knockout threat in the bout, and a single solid punch could put an end to the bout. But Oliveira’s bouts while evaluating create more drama in one of the most intriguing possible contests in the lightweight division.
To Tsarukyan, the key to winning is to stay away from the power of Topuria, gain the advantage, and make the fight a bloody grappling match.
