It looks like fans will be waiting a while before seeing the UFC lightweight champion.
The 155-pound division is under the spotlight after what unfolded at the UFC’s debut event in Qatar this past Saturday.
Arman Tsarukyan submitted Dan Hooker in the main event to stake his claim for a title shot that many deem to be deserved. A few days earlier, Paddy Pimblett’s run-in with Ilia Topuria reminded the MMA community of their animosity, which looks to threaten Tsarukyan’s plan to challenge ‘El Matador’.
But while the lightweight title picture is among the leading topics right now, there may not be a resolution for a while.
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Who should get the next lightweight title shot?
Spanish journalist says Ilia Topuria is unlikely to return in January or February
In October, Dana White gave an update on Topuria’s return and first lightweight title defense. Amid speculation over which big names will be chosen to headline the promotion’s first major event on Paramount+, UFC 324 on January 24, White hinted that the Spaniard could top the lineup.
But after fresh reports of Kayla Harrison’s title defense against Amanda Nunes being the current frontrunner, a new update has suggested that the lightweight belt is unlikely to be up for grabs again until the spring of 2026.
Spanish journalist Alvaro Colmenero, who has proven to be a reliable source regarding Topuria, recently revealed that alteration in plans regarding the UFC’s tenth two-division champion.
“Things have changed a lot,” Colmenero said (h/t @HappyPunch via X).
“There have been private situations, and you’re going to be very surprised at what’s going to happen in lightweight.
“I can confirm that Ilia will not fight in January. February? I doubt it a lot,” he continued. “If you ask me, I think Ilia will fight in spring.”
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Arman Tsarukyan slams Ilia Topuria’s ‘fall-off’
The latest update marks a blow to Tsarukyan’s title hopes, and it’s likely to only increase his ongoing trolling of Topuria.
The Armenian has been targeting the champ online ever since his crowning at UFC 317. After ‘Ahalkalakets’ recorded a victory in Qatar to cement his status as top contender, Tsarukyan has picked up his Topuria trash talk.
In his latest post on X, the No. 1-ranked lightweight continued that trend by accusing the champ of ‘falling off’.
“Ilia’s fall-off is wild. from El Matador to El Pato…and now all the way to El Patético and El Panocha,” Tsarukyan wrote.
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