Ilia Topuria Becomes Two-Division UFC Lightweight Champion, Rejects Immediate Title Contenders

Ilia Topuria has rapidly risen to prominence in the UFC by capturing the lightweight title with a first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, simultaneously holding two division championships. Despite his success, Topuria has dismissed several potential challengers, including Arman Tsarukyan, whom he accuses of being scared of facing him, and Justin Gaethje, whom he ruled out citing the need for 'new blood' in the division. UFC President Dana White appears to favor Paddy Pimblett as Topuria's next opponent, though no official matchups have been confirmed. Tsarukyan, previously the backup fighter for UFC 317 and ranked No. 1 contender, has publicly called out Topuria for avoiding him. The lightweight division remains highly competitive and tense, with Gaethje threatening retirement if denied a title shot and Topuria showing reluctance to fight established contenders again soon. Topuria also declined a potential rematch with former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, indicating a preference to avoid repeat matchups in favor of fresh challengers.