UFC 317 Features Topuria vs Oliveira Lightweight Title With Tsarukyan Backup

Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 1-ranked UFC lightweight contender, has been named the backup fighter for the UFC 317 main event featuring Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira competing for the vacant lightweight title. This role places Tsarukyan in a pivotal position should either Topuria or Oliveira be unable to compete, marking a significant opportunity after he withdrew from a title fight against Islam Makhachev earlier in the year due to a back injury. Previously, UFC CEO Dana White had stated Tsarukyan needed to earn another win before another title shot, but this backup status may indicate a reconsideration. Tsarukyan holds a previous victory over Oliveira and is currently on a four-fight win streak, enhancing his credentials as a top contender. The UFC has not yet officially confirmed his backup role, but multiple sources, including Tsarukyan himself on social media, have affirmed the arrangement ahead of the June 28 event in Las Vegas. This backup plan aims to ensure the main event proceeds smoothly, especially since Makhachev vacated the lightweight belt to pursue a welterweight title.